Infectious disease is a major cause of social and economic instability, with pathogenic bacteria and viruses accounting for most cases worldwide. That said, colonization does not necessarily cause infectious disease, as some viruses and bacteria can multiply within the body without causing harm. Show
Bacteria and viruses exert their effect in similar ways, for example, by killing cells. However, bacteria can also cause the body to mount an excessive immune response, which in itself can cause significant damage to the body. In order to reduce the rate of bacterial and viral infections, scientists spend a lot of time learning how these pathogens interact with the body. Only then can they sufficiently prevent or treat the spread of disease. Read on to learn more about the difference between bacterial and viral infections. Initially, the body responds in a similar way to a bacterial or viral infection. Early symptoms usually indicate the body is trying to rid itself of a pathogen. A high temperature, for example, can inactivate viruses and help to denature bacteria, which is why fever is an initial infection symptom. Another immune response is to produce more interferon, a substance that plays a part in the body’s defense system. Interferon helps to stop viruses and bacteria from reproducing. However, in concentrated amounts, it can make someone feel tired and achy. Common differences between bacterial and viral infections are the following: Bacterial infectionKey signs include:
Viral infectionKey signs include:
Bacterial infection occurs when one or more bacteria have entered the body and begin to multiply. However, not all bacterial infections cause disease. Bacteria have evolved to evade or manipulate the body’s immune system. So when pathogenic bacteria enter the body, they:
Common bacterial infections include: Bacterial skin infectionsStaphylococcus and Streptococcus cause skin infections, such as:
Bacterial respiratory infectionStreptococcus pneumoniae bacterium commonly causes pneumonia. Pneumonia presents with lung inflammation and is a very serious and sometimes lethal infection. Other symptoms include:
Bacterial sexually transmitted infections (STIs)Bacterial STIs include:
Viruses are packets of DNA or RNA encased in a protein shell. Outside of the body, they lack the ability to reproduce. However, upon entering a living organism, the virus invades its cells and seizes control over the cell’s metabolic machinery to make copies of itself. After the virus makes enough copies, the cell bursts releasing them to infect more cells. There are many different types of viral infections. Viral skin infectionsCommon viral skin infections include :
Viral respiratory infectionsCommon respiratory viruses include: CoronavirusesAccording to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there are multiple different types of coronavirus. Some cause minor cold-like symptoms, while others result in severe health complications. Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is a new type of coronavirus. People exposed to the SARS-CoV-2 virus may go on to develop the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19). Influenza and cold virusesInfluenza viruses cause influenza, also called “the flu.” People who get flu typically experience:
People with a common cold experience less severe symptoms and rarely develop fever. Viral STIsViral STIs include:
Bacteria and viruses move from one person to another by:
To determine if a person has a viral or bacterial infection, a doctor will usually ask questions about their symptoms and perform a physical exam. To confirm a diagnosis, they may request tests, such as:
Treatment for bacteria and viruses is different, and consequently, a prompt diagnosis is very important. AntibioticsAntibiotics are medicines that either kill or stop bacteria from reproducing. Different types of antibiotics target different bacterial infections. Antibiotics are not effective against viral infections. Antibiotics are available in the following forms:
If the infection is more severe, a doctor may recommend an antibiotic injection, intravenous infusion, or drip. AntiviralsAntiviral drugs are medicines that work to stop viruses from reproducing. Each antiviral medication usually works on one specific virus or only a group of viruses. Remdesivir was the first antiviral to receive approval for the treatment of COVID-19 in October 2020. Preventing bacterial and viral infections is the best action to take to stop the spread of disease. Steps people can take to protect themselves include:
Bacteria and viruses are different types of microorganisms, and some cause disease. Doctors typically use antibiotics to treat bacterial infections and antivirals for some viral infections. However, some infections are untreatable. The best way to prevent any type of infection is with good hygiene. Vaccines are an effective method for preventing certain viral and bacterial infections. A person should speak with their doctor if they think they have an infection. How do you know if it's a viral or bacterial infection?Bacterial Infections
Symptoms persist longer than the expected 10-14 days a virus tends to last. Fever is higher than one might typically expect from a virus. Fever gets worse a few days into the illness rather than improving.
What are the symptoms of a viral infection?Symptoms of viral infections. Fever.. Muscle ache.. Cough.. Sore throat.. Headache.. |