KEEP IN MIND WHEN YOU HAVE A COUGH...

Antibiotics make little difference to cough symptoms, the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence has said. Instead, it advises GPs to recommend honey and over-the-counter medicines containing pelargonium, guaifenesin or dextromethorphan, which may benefit.

It’s important for healthcare professionals to educate people by explaining clearly the reasons for not giving antibiotics, and to give appropriate self-care advice to patients.