Your child has an infection caused by a type of germ called a virus. Antibiotics can't cure viral infections and won't help your child feel better. Antibiotics can only treat infections caused by bacteria, a different type of germ. You can do many things at home to help your child feel comfortable over the next few days.

• Don't give your child antibiotics prescribed for a previous illness or for someone else. 
• If your child is uncomfortable from fever, a medicine may help. Use these medicines exactly as directed: 
  • acetaminophen (such as Tylenol® or a store brand)
  OR
  • ibuprofen (such as Advil®, Motrin®, or a store brand). Don't give to babies under 6 months old. 
• Don't give aspirin to your child or teen. It has been linked to a rare but serious illness called Reye syndrome.
• Let your child rest as needed. 
• Offer plenty of liquids. 
• You can try these things to help your child feel better: 
  • For congestion, a cool-mist humidifier or saltwater nose drops can help. Clean and dry the humidifier after each use to prevent the growth of mold, bacteria, and other germs. Tap water contains minerals. When possible, use distilled water to run and clean the humidifier. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for the best results. 
  • For a sore throat, offer either warm drinks or cool things like ice pops. For kids older than 4 years old, sucking on a throat lozenge or hard candy can help. 
• Follow the health care provider's instructions for when your child can return to school or child care. 
• Teach all family members to wash their hands well and often using soap and water. They should scrub for at least 20 seconds, rinse, and dry thoroughly. This is especially important after coughing or sneezing, and before and after eating. If soap and water aren't available, a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol can be used.
• Clean tabletops, doorknobs, and other hard surfaces with a cleaner that kills viruses.

• You feel your child is getting worse. 
• Your child seemed to be getting better and then gets sick again. 
• Your child won't drink. 

Your child:

• is very sleepy or is hard to wake up 
• appears dehydrated. Signs include: 
  • dizziness 
  • drowsiness 
  • a dry or sticky mouth 
  • sunken eyes 
  • crying with few or no tears 
  • peeing less often (or having fewer wet diapers) 
• has trouble breathing, is breathing fast, or looks blue around the lips 

What infections do viruses cause? Infections usually caused by a virus include:

• upper respiratory infections (the common cold) 
• sinus infections 
• pinkeye 
• bronchiolitis (RSV) 

What can happen if kids take antibiotics when they don't need them? Taking unneeded antibiotics for a viral infection may cause:

• New problems, such as: 
  • an upset stomach 
  • diarrhea 
  • a rash 
  • an allergic reaction 
• Antibiotic resistance: This is when bacteria survive even if a person takes an antibiotic. Taking antibiotics often, especially when they aren't needed, can change bacteria so that antibiotics don't work against them. Some bacteria, called "superbacteria," resist even the most powerful antibiotics.