While bacterial infections can be treated with antibiotics, antibiotics won’t help with viral infections.
What Is a Bacterial Infection?
Abacterial infectionis a disease due to tiny organisms called bacteria.
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Bacteria are single-celled organisms and come in many different shapes and sizes.
Some bacteria are beneficial; your body needs them.
However, others are harmful and make you sick.
Harmful bacteria can get into your body in many different ways.
What Is a Viral Infection?
Like bacteria,virusescan cause disease.
But unlike bacteria, viralpathogensare not technically living cells.
They can only replicate inside another organism, meaning they need a host.
These germs consist of genetic material (RNA or DNA) inside a protein coating.
Viruses often kill the host organism.
Viruses are responsible for diseases likethe flu, the common cold, AIDS, and COVID-19.
Sometimes your illness may be so mild you may not even know you’re sick.
In other cases, illnesses can be life-threatening.
Many symptoms of infection overlap, even though their causes are different.
What Causes Bacterial and Viral Infections?
You are around bacteria and viruses all the time.
They’re in the air, on your skin, and on other surfaces.
Once they get in your body, yourimmune systemkicks into action to eliminate them.
If the pathogen gets the upper hand, you’ll start to see symptoms.
If you suspect you have COVID-19, consider taking anat-home testbefore deciding to see a healthcare provider.
Various fluids and tissues can be tested for germs.
For bacteria, aculture testis commonly used to identify the harmful pathogen.
Testing for viruses may involve looking for the virus itself,viral antigens, or specific antibodies.
A PCR test amplifies the viruss genetic material in a lab, producing enough copies for detection.
Rapid antigen tests look for the presence of specific viral proteins and provide a faster result.
Bacterial infections are likely to go away on their own.
However,antibioticscan be prescribed if you have a bacterial infection that isn’t getting better.
At home, it’s important to get lots of rest and drink plenty of fluids.
Using a humidifier or cool mist vaporizer can help with respiratory symptoms.
Gargling with warm water may help soothe a sore throat.
Saline nose drops or sprays can help clear up nasal congestion.
You could also try over-the-counter pain medicines for pain symptoms.
Your immune system may be able to overcome the bacterial or viral infection without the need for treatment.
If symptoms aren’t getting better or are getting worse, talk to a healthcare provider.
Healthcare providers can order diagnostic tests and prescribe treatment as needed.
If you have a bacterial infection, you may be prescribed antibiotics.
For a viral infection, you may get an antiviral medication.
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