Most childhood fevers are caused by viruses, which do not respond to antibiotics. Prescribing antibiotics for viral illness does not shorten illness, causes unnecessary side effects, and drives antibiotic resistance. Withholding antibiotics when they are not needed is the correct clinical decision.
Written by Dr. Tanuja Mishra, MBBS (MKCG Medical College, Berhampur University, Odisha), MD Paediatrics (S.C.B. Medical College, Utkal University, Odisha), Consultant Paediatrician, Bengaluru. 17+ years, 20,000+ children. Phone: 9886261613.
