Antibiotics are only effective when there are bacteria to fight against. There is no use in taking antibiotics to avoid falling ill.
Only in exceptional circumstances will it be useful to take antibiotics before the disease has broken out. For instance, people who have come into close contact with patients suffering from bacterial meningitis should always take antibiotics for a short time.
Wash your hands
Good hygiene is the best way of prevention and helps prevent bacteria from proliferating. Wash your hands before each meal and after going to the toilet. Please make sure that your children do this as well. Our hands are major carriers of bacteria. Especially in hospitals, it is very important to disinfect your hands to prevent hospital infections from spreading.
Vaccinations
Vaccinations are also important. They prevent you from getting an infection and from having to use antibiotics later on.
Ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice.