What Is a Viral Infection?
7. How Do Viral Infections Differ from Bacterial Infections?
It can be hard to differentiate between viral and bacterial infections based on symptoms alone. Both can cause many of the same types of symptoms, including sneezing, coughing and runny noses. However, bacterial infections are caused by bacteria, while viral infections are caused by viruses. It’s important to know which type you have before seeking treatment, since they are both treated in very different ways.
Bacteria are single-celled creatures that can reproduce on their own and are relatively complex when compared to viruses. They often have rigid walls with a rubbery membrane and fluid inside. Most bacteria are relatively harmless, and some are actually good for the body. In fact, fewer than 1% of bacteria cause harmful symptoms in humans. Viruses, on the other hand, can’t reproduce or survive without a host. Most types of viruses are harmful to humans and can even target healthy bacteria.
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