Taking antibiotics for a viral fever is not only ineffective but can also be harmful, leading to various side effects and contributing to antibiotic resistance, according to Dr. Nguyen Tien Dao, CKI, Medical Manager at VNVC Vaccination System.

Antibiotics are medications derived from microorganisms, fungi, or synthesized in laboratories. They work by killing or inhibiting bacteria and are commonly used to treat bacterial infections such as pneumonia, otitis media, tonsillitis, and urinary tract infections.

However, these drugs are ineffective against viral diseases like influenza, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), or dengue fever. Furthermore, incorrect antibiotic use can lead to side effects, poisoning, liver and kidney damage, allergies, and digestive disorders. It can also increase the risk of obesity, diabetes, and antibiotic resistance, a critical global health issue where bacteria become resistant to drugs, making treatment difficult and causing about 700,000 global deaths annually.

Antibiotics should only be used for bacterial superinfections and strictly under a doctor's prescription. Instead of antibiotics, individuals with viral infections need to replenish fluids and electrolytes. This can be done with fruit juice, broth, or electrolyte solutions like oresol. For fevers above 38,5 degrees Celsius, paracetamol can be used at a dose appropriate for body weight, without exceeding the recommended amount. If a high fever persists, exceeds 39 degrees Celsius, or is accompanied by seizures, severe headaches, continuous vomiting, or if the condition does not improve after several days, seek immediate medical attention.

Self-medicating with antibiotics can cause digestive disorders and increase antibiotic resistance. *Photo: Vecteezy*

Preventive vaccines are available for some viral infectious diseases. After recovery, you might consider vaccination. For influenza, there are 4 types of vaccines available: from France, the Netherlands, South Korea, and Vietnam. These are administered to children aged 6 months and older, and adults. Children from 6 months to under 9 years old receive two doses, one month apart, while individuals aged 9 and older receive one dose. Pregnant women can be vaccinated at any time, ideally from the fourth month onwards, to protect their health and transfer passive antibodies, protecting the baby during the first 6 months of life. Regular annual influenza vaccine boosters are recommended to maintain antibodies and address circulating influenza strains.

For respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), two types of vaccines are currently available: one from Pfizer, administered as a single dose to individuals aged 60 and older, and to pregnant women between 24-36 weeks of gestation; and one from GSK, administered as a single dose to individuals aged 60 and older, and those with chronic diseases. Additionally, Sanofi offers a monoclonal antibody product for RSV prevention, administered to infants up to 24 months old, with the vaccination schedule and dosage varying by age and weight.

Dengue virus, which causes dengue fever, can be prevented with the Qdenga vaccine (Takeda). This vaccine is for children aged 4 and older, and adults. It involves two doses, administered three months apart. Women should complete the vaccination schedule at least one month, and ideally three months, before becoming pregnant.

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