Page 70 - South Mississippi Living - April, 2026

Dr. William “Van” Wurm
story and photos courtesy of Memorial Health System
About 100 years ago the first antibiotics were developed, transforming medicine. Bacterial illnesses that were once life- threatening became curable. Today antibiotics remain among the most powerful tools in medicine, but they must be used carefully—especially in children.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 30 percent of antibiotics prescribed in
the United States are unnecessary. In some regions the numbers may be even higher. For example, CDC data show that Mississippi’s antibiotic prescription rate is more than 150 percent higher than Oregon’s!
The Downsides of Antibiotics
Many common outpatient illnesses are viral, including: • Colds
• Most short-term coughs
• Influenza
• Many sore throats
Antibiotics do not work against viruses, so taking them for these illnesses provides no benefit. Unnecessary antibiotic use can also cause real problems for both individuals and society, including:
Antibiotic resistance – Overuse encourages bacteria to evolve defenses against antibiotics.
Side effects – Antibiotics commonly cause gastrointestinal upset and may increase the risk of bacterial diarrhea.
Allergic reactions – The immune system may react against the antibiotics. Immune reactions can range from mild rashes to severe skin reactions.
Disruption of our own “good” bacteria – Antibiotics also kill beneficial bacteria that support our overall health.
Possible links to chronic disease – Emerging research suggests that early antibiotic exposure in children may be associated with conditions such as obesity, allergic disease, and inflammatory bowel disease.
When Are Antibiotics Appropriate?
In the outpatient setting they are typically prescribed when there is a high likelihood of bacterial infection or risk of complications. Common examples include:
• Strep throat caused by Streptococcus pyogenes
• Urinary tract infections, often caused by E. coli
• Certain ear infections caused by bacteria
• Skin infections caused by Staphylococcus or Streptococcus
Not all antibiotics are the same. Your physician should select the medication based on the most likely bacteria and the safest effective option.
What Should Parents Do?
Ensure their child has a consistent medical home where medical history is known.
Work with a trusted, board-certified healthcare provider who has the experience and confidence to prescribe antibiotics only when they are truly needed.
Dr. Van Wurm provides compassionate, comprehensive care for infants, children, and teens at Mississippi Pediatric Associates. He is certified by the American Board of Pediatrics and has been practicing on the Mississippi Gulf Coast since 2009. He is welcoming new patients. Call (228) 818-0585 to schedule an appointment or visit wearememorial.com to learn more.
70 | April 2026
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