Clinical reasoning — antibiotics vs. colds: You wake with a sore throat and runny nose; the lab report leads the doctor to say “antibiotics will not help.” Context: Interpret why antibiotics are not indicated based on likely etiology. Choose the most likely reason.
General Knowledge
Biology
Difficulty: Easy
Choose an option
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AThe illness is caused by a <strong>virus</strong>, and antibiotics target bacteria, not viruses
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BAll bacteria are now resistant to antibiotics
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CAntibiotics only work when taken by injection, not orally
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DAntibiotics would worsen the immune response in all infections
Answer
Correct Answer: The illness is caused by a <strong>virus</strong>, and antibiotics target bacteria, not viruses
Explanation
Given data
- Symptoms: sore throat + runny nose — typical of viral upper respiratory infection (common cold).
- Lab swab suggests no bacterial growth/pathogen needing antibiotics.
Concept / ApproachAntibiotics act on bacteria (cell wall synthesis, protein synthesis, etc.). They are ineffective against viruses, which lack these bacterial targets. Supportive care or antivirals (when appropriate) are used instead.
Common pitfalls
- Assuming antibiotics help any infection; misuse promotes resistance and side effects.
Final AnswerLikely viral etiology — antibiotics would not help.