Researchers say the findings may be related to the effect of antibiotics on the bacteria in the intestines that affect digestion and absorption of food.
“These findings may result in a decrease in requests by parents for antibiotic prescriptions for their children,” says Mayo Clinic pediatric endocrinologist Seema Kumar, M.D.. Dr. Kumar says it’s important to know when antibiotics are appropriate. Most children with viral illnesses do not need them. On the other hand, many bacterial illnesses require antibiotics.
“This study does not suggest children should not receive antibiotics at all,” Dr. Kumar cautions. “Parents should leave it up to their providers to determine if antibiotics are needed when a child is sick.”
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