It’s that time of the year again, cold and flu season is upon us; and coughs, sore throats, runny noses and fever can make us all feel rotten and unwell. It’s especially concerning for parents of young children who develop these symptoms, because their child is so distressed. It can be tempting to think that antibiotics are the cure all for a cold, but did you know that majority of colds are caused by viruses and antibiotics do not work for them. A cough can last for up to two weeks, after a cold, and sometimes is the last symptom to go, but it does not mean you need antibiotics. In fact, having antibiotics when we don’t really need them, can cause other infections (such as thrush, or gastroenteritis) and antibiotic resistance in the general population. The best thing one can do, when developing a cold, is rest, take pain relief and keep hydrated. If your symptoms are especially severe, persistent, and/or you are very unwell (especially if a child), please see the GP.