Why Viral Fevers Are Lasting Longer: The Hidden Role of Antibiotic Misuse - Dr Siri M Kamath

Every year, as the seasons change, clinics see a surge in patients with viral fevers. What is different now is that these fevers seem to linger longer than before. Many families notice that the fever does not settle in the usual three or four days, and the fatigue that follows stretches for weeks.

Understandably, people grow anxious and begin to wonder if their immune system has grown weaker or if new “stronger” viruses are circulating. While these factors do play a role, one hidden reason often overlooked is the misuse of antibiotics.

Viral fever and its natural course

A viral fever is the body’s natural response to an infection caused by viruses. In most cases, such fevers run a limited course. The body’s immune system identifies the invader, mounts a defence, and gradually clears the infection.

During this time, rest, adequate fluids, and light meals are usually enough to support recovery. Medicines given by doctors typically focus on easing symptoms such as headache, body aches, or congestion.

Unlike bacterial infections, where antibiotics can directly attack the disease-causing organism, there is no role for antibiotics in viral illnesses. A viral fever has to be allowed to resolve naturally, with medical supervision ensuring that complications do not arise.

Where antibiotics come in and why they are misused

Despite clear medical guidance, antibiotics are often prescribed or even self-purchased at the first sign of fever. Many people believe that these medicines are “strong” and will help them recover faster, regardless of the cause of illness.

At times, the pressure to recover quickly from work or school obligations also leads patients or families to push for antibiotic prescriptions.

Taking antibiotics when they aren’t needed does more harm than many realise. These medicines work only against bacteria, not viruses. If used carelessly, they upset the normal bacteria in the gut that help keep the body strong.

Once that balance is disturbed, the immune system can be temporarily deranged and viral fevers often drag on instead of settling quickly.

The gut-immune connection

Over the past decade, research has highlighted the close relationship between the gut microbiome and the immune system. The trillions of bacteria in the digestive tract play a vital role in training and regulating immune responses.

When antibiotics are misused, they reduce this healthy diversity, leading to an immune system that becomes less efficient.

As a result, viral fevers may drag on longer, symptoms may remain more stubborn, and recovery feels slower. The same misuse also contributes to side effects such as stomach upset, diarrhoea, and reduced appetite, which further delay recovery.

A wider public health concern

Beyond individual illness, antibiotic misuse fuels another major threat: antibiotic resistance. This occurs when bacteria evolve to withstand the effects of medicines.

Over time, infections that were once easy to treat can become more complicated and dangerous. In India, where antibiotics are often available without a prescription, this concern is especially pressing.

Longer-lasting viral fevers are just one immediate impact felt at the personal level. The larger danger is that when a genuine bacterial infection does occur, our treatment options may become limited.

What can patients and families do?

The good news is that there are simple, practical steps to manage viral fevers without falling into the trap of antibiotic misuse:

Trust the natural course: Most viral fevers improve in 4–7 days with rest, hydration, and supportive care.

Consult a doctor and get tested for common viral illnesses such as dengue, influenza, and COVID.

Use medicines wisely: Take only what your doctor prescribes, usually to manage pain, body ache, or high fever.

Avoid self-medication: Do not buy antibiotics over the counter without a doctor’s advice.

Support the body’s defences: Light, freshly prepared meals, plenty of fluids, and adequate sleep help the immune system work efficiently.

Watch for warning signs: Very high or persistent fever, severe weakness, or breathing difficulty should prompt immediate medical review.

The way forward

Viral fevers lasting longer are a worrying trend, but it can be addressed. When we recognise the difference between bacterial and viral infections and use antibiotics only when they are genuinely required, recovery becomes faster, safer, and more complete.

The next time a viral fever strikes, patience and medical guidance will serve far better than a hurried course of antibiotics. Responsible use of medicines not only protects individual health but also safeguards the strength of our treatments for the future.

Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are of the author and not of Health Dialogues. The Editorial/Content team of Health Dialogues has not contributed to the writing/editing/packaging of this article.