Patient Resource

Do You Need an Antibiotic?

Understanding the difference between viral and bacterial infections can protect your health — and help prevent antibiotic resistance.

Patient Resource · November 2, 2024


Antibiotics are often prescribed when they are not needed for respiratory infections. Antibiotics are only needed for treating certain infections caused by bacteria. Viral illnesses cannot be treated with antibiotics. When an antibiotic is not prescribed, ask your healthcare professional for tips on how to relieve symptoms.

External Resource

Centre for Disease Control & Prevention — Simple Chart

A reference chart from the CDC to help patients and providers distinguish between illnesses that require antibiotics and those that do not.

View the CDC Virus or Bacteria Chart

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Dr. Michael Varenbut

Oak Ridges Medical & Urgent Care Centre

13291 Yonge St suite 100
Richmond Hill, ON L4E 4L6, Canada

(905) 773-7759

Hours: By Appointment

Our Clinic's Website:
oakridgesmedicalandurgentcarecentre.ca

Our Medical Building's Website:
www.ormc.ca

Local Hospitals

Mackenzie Health

Mackenzie Richmond Hill Hospital Site
10 Trench Street, Richmond Hill, ON, L4C 4Z3
Phone: 905-883-1212

Cortellucci Vaughan Hospital Site
3200 Major Mackenzie Dr W, Vaughan, ON, L6A 4Z3
Phone: 905-417-2000

mackenziehealth.ca

Southlake Regional Health Centre

596 Davis Drive, Newmarket, Ontario L3Y 2P9

Phone: 905-895-4521 · TTY: 905-952-3062

southlake.ca

Markham Stouffville Hospital (Oak Valley Health)

381 Church Street, Markham, ON L3P 7P3

Phone: (905) 472-7373

oakvalleyhealth.ca

Call to Book — 905-773-7759