Mumbai: With the increase in viral infections due to fluctuations in temperatures, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO), many patients tend to self-administer over-the-counter antibiotics. Many also get antibiotics that are not prescribed by doctors. However, a WHO proclamation advised people not to use antibiotics, as they don’t work against any kind of cold or flu. The doctors from the city also echoed similar opinions.

As per the WHO procl-amation, influenza is an ever-evolving disease. Hence, work on prevention, preparedness and response needs to adapted continuously in order to keep up with these changes. The WHO also suggests that the affected individuals should take preventive actions, medicines and stay at home when sick. They should also wash their hands frequently.

An infectious diseases specialist, Dr Om Shriv-astav, said, “If patients show any symptoms of viral fever or respiratory-related problems, the-y should immediately seek treatment in a hospital instead of resorting to self-medication.”

Dr Shrivastav also said that cold occurs due to viral infections, but mo-st antibiotics are meant for bacterial infections.