Bacterial infections of the respiratory tract, when they do occur, are generally a secondary problem caused by complications from viral infections such as influenza. While it is often difficult to distinguish bacterial from viral sinusitis, nearly all cases are viral. Though cases of bacterial sinusitis can benefit from antibiotics, evidence of such cases does not typically surface until after at least seven days of illness. Not only are antibiotics rarely indicated for upper respiratory illnesses, but some patients experience adverse effects from such medications.
Sources:
American Academy of Allergy Asthma and Immunology. Sinus infections account for more antibiotic prescriptions than any other diagnosis [Internet]. 2013 Aug 28 [cited 2017 May 9].
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Related Resources:
Patient Pamphlet: Treating Sinusitis: Don’t rush to antibiotics