Get Smart: Will an antibiotic cure a cold, fix a sore throat?

But not every cough, sore throat or earache requires a course of the bacteria killers. Why? Because common colds, the flu and other everyday ailments are caused by viruses, not bacteria.

Posted 12:44 a.m. Feb 25, 2015 — Updated 12:44 a.m. Feb 25, 2015

Sarah Lindenfeld Hall

Antibiotics have been around for decades to clear up bacterial infections. Illnesses like strep throat, pneumonia and some kinds of bronchitis and ear infections all can be cleared up with a round of the life-saving medications.

But not every cough, sore throat or earache requires a course of the bacteria killers. Why? Because common colds, the flu and other everyday ailments are caused by viruses, not bacteria. Antibiotics don't kill viruses.

Here's a list of common illnesses with information courtesy of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention about whether they are caused by a virus or bacteria and whether antibiotics are indicated. Of course, it's always best to chat with your doctor if you're feeling under the weather.

Cold

Cause: Virus

Antibiotics needed: No

Flu

Cause: Virus

Antibiotics needed: No

Chest Cold (in otherwise healthy children and adults)

Cause: Virus

Antibiotics needed: No

Sore Throat (except strep)

Cause: Virus

Antibiotics needed: No

According to N.C. Get Smart, only 1 in 5 children with a sore throat who see a doctor actually have strep throat.

Bronchitis (in otherwise healthy children and adults)

Cause: Virus

Antibiotics needed: No

Runny Nose (with green or yellow mucus)

Cause: Virus

Antibiotics needed: No

Fluid in Middle Ear

Cause: Virus

Antibiotics needed: No

Go Ask Mom is partnering with the North Carolina Quality Center to help parents Get Smart About Antibiotics. For additional information and resources, see http://www.ncgetsmart.com.

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