What's Bugging You?
Cough, sneeze, sore throat, runny nose, and nausea……

Every year, students experience a variety of “bugs” such as colds, sore throats, intestinal infections, mononucleosis, and influenza. No one has time to be sick anymore, but college students may feel additional pressure to be healthy in order to keep up with the demands of college life. An antibiotic may seem like the best solution and students often request such treatment. The providers at Calvin College Health Center are dedicated to helping students maximize their health, but an antibiotic may not always be prescribed.

It is true that the right antibiotic used for the right infections can save your life. However, antibiotics can also cause problems if used incorrectly. Many of the “bugs” affecting college students will not respond to antibiotics. Incorrect use of antibiotics may lead to the creation of “super bugs”.

Bacteria are living organisms existing as single cells. Bacteria are everywhere and most of them don't cause any harm. Some are actually beneficial. For instance, helpful bacteria such as lactobacillus line the intestines and enable us to digest food while others help to synthesize vitamin K, an essential ingredient in blood clotting. Other friendly bacteria prevent disease causing bacteria from invading the body. Pathogens are the type of bacteria capable of causing disease. Antibiotics kill both pathogenic and nonpathogenic bacteria by stopping their growth and reproduction.

Viruses are not alive and cannot exist on their own. They are essentially particles containing genetic material wrapped in a protein coat. Viruses invade other living cells in order to grow and reproduce. They do not respond to antibiotics. Most viruses which affect college students (such as colds and mononucleosis) must simply run their course.

Antibiotic resistance is an alarming problem. Many illnesses that once were treated successfully with antibiotics are becoming extremely difficult to cure. In some parts of the world, the death rates are rising from previously controlled communicable diseases such as TB and malaria. While scientists continue to search for new and effective antibiotics, it is critical for all of us to use our current supply selectively and correctly.

Exterminating Bugs
Living with bugs will always be a challenge. The following guidelines should help in managing this buggy environment:

• Mild viral illnesses such as the common cold should be allowed to run their course. Symptoms such as congestion can be treated with decongestants, and the cough can be treated with cough medications. But antibiotics should not be used.
• If you are not sure what type of germ is “bugging” you, see a health care provider for assessment and treatment where needed.
• If you are given an antibiotic, take it exactly as prescribed in order to discourage the development of resistant bacteria. Complete the prescription as directed.
• Never use another person's prescription. Using the wrong antibiotic will not help and may actually make you sicker.
• Don't save leftover antibiotics for the next illness. Using a shortened course of antibiotics may encourage the survival of the more lethal mutant bacteria.
• Help prevent the spread of infections by frequent hand washing and by separating yourself from others when you are ill.
• Get the annual Flu vaccine. Vaccines provide the best protection from diseases such as influenza. The flu vaccine will be available at the health center in late October. Watch the student news for more information.