When Antibiotics Aren’t the Answer 

Antibiotics can be an effective treatment for infections caused by bacteria, but they are not always the best course of action for some common conditions.  

WVU Medicine providers follow guidance from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) on when, why, and how to help patients with antibiotics.  

“We are fervent antibiotic stewards and practice based on the guidelines,” said Dr. Afsoun Sichani, Medical Director of WVU Medicine Urgent Care-East. “Our goal is to provide proper treatment and educate our patients on when and how to use antibiotics safely and effectively.” 

Antibiotics don’t work on viruses. So, if you’re diagnosed with the flu, the common cold, or Norovirus, then antibiotics will not make you feel better.  

If you’re diagnosed with strep throat, a urinary tract infection (UTI), or an ear infection, you’re likely to be prescribed an antibiotic. However, not all illnesses need antibiotics, Dr. Sichani explained.  

“We often see patients come in with sinus symptoms that have only been present for a few days and worry they have a sinus infection caused by bacteria,” she said, adding that many sinus symptoms start with a cold and improve on their own.  

Sinus infections usually take time to develop, and symptoms often need to last about 10 days before antibiotics are helpful. 

“Overprescribing antibiotics can lead to the development of drug resistance bacteria and infections,” Dr. Sichani said. “Drug-resistant germs spread quickly and can impact the entire community’s health and safety.” 

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 2.8 million drug-resistant infections occur each year in the U.S., and more than 35,000 people die as a result. 

If you’re sick, providers at WVU Medicine Urgent Care locations throughout the Eastern Panhandle are prepared to evaluate your symptoms, then diagnose and treat you with these antibiotic guidelines and considerations in mind.  

You can find an Urgent Care location near you here, and check wait times before you go. 

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Dr. Afsoun Sichani