Bacterial & Viral Infections Treatments

Although viral and bacterial infections have similar symptoms, there are distinct differences such as in the way they’ve acquired, transmitted, and treated. Here’s a table with the common facts about bacterial and viral infections:

Bacterial infection

• These are diseases caused by bacteria, which are small single-celled organisms that can exist in the environment or the human body.
• There are different groups of bacteria categorized according to their unique shapes and structures. This can include bacilli (rod-shaped), cocci (round sphere), spirochaetes (spiral-shaped), and vibrio (comma-shaped).
• Some bacteria are beneficial like the gut bacteria which supports normal digestion. Most infections are caused by specific pathogenic bacteria.

Viral infection

• These are infectious diseases caused by a virus, which are organisms that are smaller than a bacterium. They reproduce by attaching themselves to host cells.
• Like bacteria, viruses can be classified into several types: icosahedral, enveloped, helical, and complex.
• Viruses pose a greater threat because they invade the healthy cells in the body in order to grow and multiply. Some viruses are the cause of malignant or cancerous cells.

Bacterial infections often start when a bacteria enters the body, multiplies, and causes an immune system reaction. The most common way that pathogenic bacteria can go into your body is through an opening in your skin. You may also acquire bacteria through droplets that can enter your airway and lead to a bacterial respiratory infection.

Viral infections can be acquired through close exposure or contact with surfaces or fluids that have the virus. Most viruses are airborne and can be spread when you inhale small respiratory droplets from an infected person.

Here are other ways that a bacterial or viral infectious disease can be transmitted:

• Engaging in close contact or physical activity with an infected individual
• Being exposed to the fluids of a person with existing bacterial or viral disease
• Touching surfaces that are contaminated with bacteria or viruses
• Can be transmitted from a mother to a child during pregnancy or birth
• Bites from infected insects or animals
• Consuming contaminated food or water

It’s important to consult a bacterial or viral infections specialist to get an accurate diagnosis of your symptoms. Some illnesses like ear infections, pneumonia, and sinus infection can be caused by either bacteria or viruses, and it’s only by having a proper diagnosis that you can get the right treatment.

In most cases, a doctor will perform a physical exam and ask about your medical history. They may also run some tests such as blood exams or urine tests. They may also perform a culture test or skin biopsy of the affected tissue.

Some conditions may be caused by a secondary bacterial infection that happens after a virus has infected your body. You may have a secondary infection if you have the following symptoms:

• Your symptoms have lasted for more than 14 days
• You have a severe, high fever compared to a common cold
• Your symptoms are not improving

There are some helpful measures that you can do to remain healthy and reduce your risk of having a viral or bacterial infection.

• Consult with your health care provider and get vaccinated for certain illnesses.
• Follow proper hygiene practices at home and outside.
• Always wash your hands and avoid touching the face with unclean hands.
• Wear a face mask when interacting with people that may be infected.
• Eat a healthy and balanced diet with fruits and vegetables.
• Apply an insect repellent lotion to protect yourself against bug bites.