Antibiotics are medicines that fight infections caused by bacteria. Antibiotics work by targeting and killing harmful bacteria.
Normally, your immune system helps control the bacteria you have. But, sometimes bacteria grow so quickly that your immune system can’t keep up and then you may develop an infection that needs to be treated.
Antibiotics are important for treating you when you definitely have an infection, but unneeded antibiotics can do more harm than good. Improving the way we use antibiotics for our residents is one way we can protect your health and ensure the safety of your care.
Ask your doctor or a nurse about the benefits and risks of taking an antibiotic.