Antibiotics only cure certain infections due to bacteria -- and if taken carelessly, you may get more serious health problems than you bargained for. With any illness, it is critical to address the underlying cause, whether it's bacterial or viral.Antibiotics w ill not kill cold or flu viruses.ntibiotics only cure certain infections due to bacteria -- and if taken carelessly, you may get more serious health problems than you bargained for. With any illness, it is critical to address the underlying cause, whether it's bacterial or viral.