Each November, U.S. Antibiotic Awareness Week shines a spotlight on an invisible threat hiding in plain sight: the misuse of antibiotics. From November 18–24, healthcare providers, families, and communities come together to raise awareness about antibiotic resistance and promote the safe, responsible use of these powerful medications.

Whether you’re a parent of a young child, someone managing a chronic condition, or simply interested in staying healthy, understanding how and when to use antibiotics is essential. Here’s what you need to know—and what you can do.

What Is U.S. Antibiotic Awareness Week?

U.S. Antibiotic Awareness Week is a national observance led by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to raise awareness of antibiotic resistance and encourage smart antibiotic use.

The message is clear:
Antibiotics save lives.
But they are not always the answer.
Overuse and misuse are causing bacteria to become resistant—and that puts us all at risk.

This week is part of a global effort, coordinated with World Antimicrobial Awareness Week, to slow the spread of drug-resistant infections, often called “superbugs.”

What Is Antibiotic Resistance?

Antibiotic resistance happens when bacteria adapt and no longer respond to the antibiotics designed to kill them. This means:

Infections last longer
Treatment is more difficult
Risk of spreading illness increases
Medical procedures become more dangerous

This isn’t about your body becoming resistant—it’s the bacteria that change. And it can affect anyone, at any age.

Why It Matters

According to the CDC:

Over 2.8 million antibiotic-resistant infections occur in the U.S. each year.
More than 35,000 people die as a direct result.
Up to 30% of antibiotic prescriptions in outpatient settings are unnecessary.

When antibiotics are used for viruses like colds, flu, or COVID-19—they don’t work. Worse, they contribute to resistance.

Common Myths—Busted

Let’s clear up some confusion:

Myth: “If I don’t take antibiotics, I won’t get better.”
Fact: Most common illnesses like colds, sore throats, and the flu are viral. Antibiotics don’t help.

Myth: “I should save leftover antibiotics for the next time I’m sick.”
Fact: Never reuse or share antibiotics. Only take them when prescribed and as directed.

Myth: “Antibiotic resistance only affects people in hospitals.”
Fact: Resistant infections can happen anywhere—including your home, school, or daycare.

What Parents Should Know

Antibiotic resistance is a serious concern for children. In fact, kids are one of the most likely groups to receive unnecessary antibiotics—especially for ear infections, sore throats, and runny noses.

Here’s how to protect your child:

Ask questions: “Is this infection viral or bacterial?”
Follow prescriptions exactly: Finish the full course if prescribed.
Never pressure your pediatrician for antibiotics “just in case.”
Teach handwashing and hygiene: Prevention is the best medicine.

What You Can Do to Help

You don’t need a medical degree to fight antibiotic resistance. You just need awareness—and action.

Use antibiotics only when necessary.
Never demand antibiotics from your doctor.
Get recommended vaccines, including flu and COVID-19.
Prevent infections with handwashing, food safety, and clean environments.
Avoid self-medicating or using leftover prescriptions.
Talk to your healthcare provider about the safest treatment options.

Every smart choice you make helps protect your family—and your community.

When ARE Antibiotics the Right Choice?

Antibiotics can be lifesaving for bacterial infections such as:

In these cases, timely antibiotics are essential. That’s why using them only when needed helps keep them effective for those situations.

Why It’s a Global Issue

Antibiotic resistance isn’t just a U.S. problem—it’s a global health emergency. The World Health Organization (WHO) warns that by 2050, antibiotic-resistant infections could cause 10 million deaths per year if left unchecked.

Our choices today affect the world tomorrow.