Antibiotics can provide essential, even lifesaving, relief to a sick child – when used appropriately.

But antibiotics are not without risks.

Overuse and misuse over the past several generations has led to the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

More than 160 million prescriptions are written for antibiotics every year in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

It’s estimated 50% of those are unnecessary.

The World Health Organization calls antibiotic resistance one of the top threats to global health.

Parents can help prevent the spread of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

• Don’t give antibiotics for viral infections such as the common cold or flu.

• If you’re unsure whether your child needs an antibiotic, talk to your child’s doctor about the advantages and disadvantages.

• Ask your doctor if you can take a “wait and see” approach and work closely with them to monitor your child.

• If you must give an antibiotic to an infant, also administer a probiotic like Evivo, which includes a form of B. infantis that works to reduce antibiotic-resistant bacteria and ensures good bacteria are restored in baby’s gut.

• Follow and complete dosage instructions to ensure bad bacteria are eliminated.

• Don’t save antibiotics for next time. If there is any medicine left once you’ve completed the dosage as prescribed, safely discard the leftovers.

Learn more at www.evivo.com .