IDSA Issues Sinus Infection Guidelines

Arlington, VA—The Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA) has issued new guidelines regarding the treatment of sinus infections. An estimated 98% of cases are caused by viruses, rather than bacteria, and should not be treated with antibiotics—a common practice that contributes to drug resistance. With no test to easily determine the source of infection, many physicians prescribe antibiotics as a precaution. If symptoms do not improve after 10 days and include fever of 102º F or higher, nasal discharge, or facial pain, the infection is likely bacterial and should be treated with antibiotics. For bacterial infections, the IDSA recommends a shorter course of treatment of 5 to 7 days with amoxicillin-clavulanate, an antibiotic combination that helps to overcome resistance.

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