In the wake of a surge in cases of cold-related infections, such as flu, across the country, the Pharmacy and Poisons Board (PPB) has cautioned Kenyans against using antibiotics to treat the illness.
In a brief statement on Thursday, August 28, the board noted that antibiotics only treat bacterial infections and not the flu, which is caused by a virus.
“Got a cold or flu? No antibiotic is needed. Antibiotics do not work against viruses. Let us use them responsibly,” the pharmacy board warned Kenyans.
While calling for responsible use of antibiotics by members of the public, PPB challenged Kenyans suffering from the flu to instead use natural remedies to cure the illness.
According to the board, an individual can easily manage the symptoms of flu by getting adequate rest and ensuring regular hydration.
Similarly, those suffering from the illness were urged to consistently eat nutritious food and seek advice from their healthcare professionals on the best symptom-relief mechanisms.
"If you're suffering from a viral infection like the cold or flu, you can feel better without antibiotics. Rest and stay hydrated. Eat nutritious food and ask your healthcare professional for advice on symptom relief," PPB stated.
The warning comes against the backdrop of an increase in flu-related illnesses within Nairobi and across several parts of the country, even as the cold season intensifies.
With a sudden drop in temperature and escalating windy conditions, a section of Kenyans are battling persistent coughs, occasional sneezing, and a runny nose.
According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), the flu is a highly contagious respiratory infection that is caused by a virus that could be seasonal, a pandemic or brought by animals.
The global health organisation, in its research, revealed that the disease occurs year-round but always experiences a sharp rise during the cold season. In Kenya, the cold season begins in May and subsides in October.
However, with the recent escalation of the contagious infection in the country, many Kenyans have now resorted to using antibiotics to quell the overwhelming symptoms of the virus, a move that is not advisable.
