Caution Against Insisting on Antibiotics for Viral Infections in Children
Antibiotic Insistence not to be persisted in Viral Infections in Children
In a recent report, it has been stressed that respiratory tract infections, which are increasingly prevalent among school-age children, might be of viral origin, and as such, insistent use of antibiotic treatment should be avoided.
Dr. Ahmet Özdemir, a Pediatric Diseases and Newborn Intensive Care Specialist at the Kayseri City Hospital, highlighted that with the advent of winter and the cooling of the weather, there is a surge in infectious diseases, making cold and flu illnesses quite common.
“It should not be overlooked that most infections, especially in young children, are of viral nature. We should not insist on antibiotics in viral infections,” stated Özdemir. He emphasized that the liver and kidney burdens of babies, infants, and young children must not be aggravated through symptomatic treatment.
Özdemir warned that the symptoms of viral and bacterial infections can be alike. Upper respiratory tract infections, when not treated properly, can turn into lower respiratory tract infections, and therefore, children should follow a balanced diet and consume adequate fluids as prescribed by their doctor.
He also noted that if a child’s fever does not subside, symptoms worsen at night, and babies experience cyanosis, this may indicate a heightened risk of lower respiratory tract infection.
Moreover, in light of the Covid-19 pandemic, Özdemir reminded that wearing a mask significantly protects against infections and reduces hospitalization rates, especially among children. He also stressed the importance of mask-wearing being performed correctly. “Even without a mask, if we pay attention to our distance, there is no such thing as being protected with a mask. But we can recommend our patients with underlying immunodeficiency problems to use masks during temporary epidemic periods,” said Özdemir.
Overall, he emphasized that personal hygiene, particularly regular handwashing, is essential in preventing the spread of viral infections, stressing that viral agents can persist for up to 48-72 hours on inanimate surfaces.
