According to the World Health Organization (WHO), antibiotics are not effective in the treatment of COVID-19, which the new coronavirus causes. Antibiotics can only treat bacterial infections, not viruses. If people are receiving hospital treatment for COVID-19, doctors may prescribe antibiotics for secondary bacterial infections. The new coronavirus causes a respiratory infection that can weaken the immune system. This impact can increase the risk of getting a bacterial infection, which the individual may find harder to fight off. Doctors may prescribe antibiotics to people with COVID-19 to prevent or treat secondary bacterial infections, such as bacterial pneumonia. Doctors may then use antibiotics as part of the treatment to fight the infection. Antibiotics treat bacterial infections and are not effective in treating viruses. One antibiotic, azithromycin, may be a potential treatment option. Researchers are currently studying the effects. Although there have been reports of some positive effects from azithromycin, particularly alongside hydroxychloroquine, there have also been severe side effects. Researchers need further evidence to test the safety and effectiveness of these two drugs. There are currently no FDA approved drugs for the specific treatment of COVID-19. Researchers are looking into the potential of existing drugs and antivirals, along with other treatment therapies, to treat COVID-19. Current treatment focuses on symptom relief and treating complications. People may be able to treat mild symptoms at home. If people have severe symptoms, they should contact their doctor straight away.
(Credits: www.medicalnewstoday.com)