Antibiotics and children: what parents should know

Most childhood coughs, colds and ear infections are viral and get better on their own. Here is how to know when a child really needs an antibiotic.

By Dr Helena Marsh. Published 11 June 2026 · Clinically reviewed. This article is general information, not a substitute for advice about your own health.

Children get a lot of infections, and most of them are caused by viruses. Coughs, colds, runny noses and many ear infections and sore throats settle on their own without antibiotics. Knowing this can save your child from side effects they do not need.

Why antibiotics are often not the answer

An antibiotic will not help a viral illness, and it can cause diarrhoea, thrush or rashes. Using antibiotics when they are not needed also contributes to resistance, which matters most for the children who will grow up in a world where these medicines still need to work.

When to see a doctor

Trust your instincts, and seek care if your child is getting worse rather than better, is drinking very little, is hard to rouse, is having trouble breathing, or has a high fever that will not come down. These can be signs of a more serious infection that a doctor should assess.

If an antibiotic is prescribed

Give it exactly as directed, use the measuring device that comes with liquid medicines rather than a kitchen spoon, and finish the course your prescriber specifies. If side effects worry you, call your GP or pharmacist before stopping.

For more, see how to tell if you actually need an antibiotic and the complete guide to using antibiotics safely.