Your child has a runny nose, a cough, a sore throat and a fever, so you go to the pediatrician. The doctor knows a virus caused this infection, which will just run its course. You’re worried, so you push the doctor to give your child an antibiotic. The doctor gives in.

Who’s wrong? Both, experts say. “Physicians and parents are not getting it. Antibiotics are not necessary for the majority of infections seen in the pediatrician’s office,” says Texas pediatrician Carol J. Baker, M.D., an infectious disease expert and spokeswoman for the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).

“These medications are great when they’re needed, but they’re only useful against bacterial infection, never against viral infection,” adds Keith R. Powell, M.D., an AAP spokesman and chairman of pediatrics at Northeastern Ohio University College of Medicine.

Overuse of an antibiotic can help breed strains of bacteria that the drug won’t kill. This antibiotic resistance can make a wonder drug useless.

“At least three-quarters of the infections most pediatricians see in an office are viral, with no complications,” says Dr. Baker. Viruses cause colds, for instance, and symptoms can last five to 10 days. “Making sure the child is getting adequate fluids [and children’s acetaminophen] is all that’s necessary.”

Antibiotics also can cause various side effects, such as stomach upset, abdominal cramps and diarrhea.

So how do you know when your child needs an antibiotic? Leave that to the doctor, but don’t bite your tongue — ask if it’s needed and if not, why?

“If you have questions or you’re not sure, call the pediatrician or make an appointment,” Dr. Powell says.

Doctors suspect bacteria when a young patient: Has a fever of 102 to 104 degrees for more than five days. Isn’t eating or drinking as usual. Has a sense of malaise. Has a cough that won’t ease up.