EVERYDAY SCIENCE

Detailed explanation-1: -What is an antibiotic? Antibiotics are medicines that fight infections caused by bacteria in humans and animals by either killing the bacteria or making it difficult for the bacteria to grow and multiply.

Detailed explanation-2: -Antibiotics are only needed for treating certain infections caused by bacteria, but even some bacterial infections get better without antibiotics. We rely on antibiotics to treat serious, life-threatening conditions such as pneumonia and sepsis, the body’s extreme response to an infection.

Detailed explanation-3: -If a bacterial infection is established: Watchful waiting is encouraged for uncomplicated cases for which reliable follow-up is available. Amoxicillin or amoxicillin/clavulanate is the recommended first-line therapy.

Detailed explanation-4: -Antibiotics may be used to treat bacterial infections. Antifungals may be used to treat fungal infections. Supportive measures (such as pain relief, decongestants) may be used to treat some viral infections. Anthelminthics may be used to treat parasitic infections.