Not all illnesses are resulting from viruses.
Some such as bacterial pneumonia can cause flu-like symptoms but are caused bybacteria.
Illustration by Mira Norian for Verywell Health
Is the Flu a Virus or Bacteria?
Illustration by Mira Norian for Verywell Health
Flu Symptoms
Influenza viruses are detected year-round in the United States.
Flu symptoms vary from person to person.
People who have the flu often feel some or all of these common signs and symptoms.
They include:
Who Is More Susceptible to the Flu?
Anyone can get sick with flu, and serious problems can occur at any age.
What’s the Difference Between Bacteria and Viruses?
Bacteria and viruses are very differentpathogens(tiny organisms that cause disease).
However, they have some similarities.
They both cause infections and are spread by:
Bacteria
Bacteria are small single-cell organisms.
They have a nucleus that contains their genetic material and they can reproduce on their own.
They carry out many other processes to sustain their lives.
You also have “good"bacteria that belong in your body and help you.
These bacteria digest your food and protect your body from harmful bacteria.
But some bacteria can infect the body, causing harm.
This triggers your body to mount a protectiveimmune response.
They can only reproduce by attaching themselves to cells and using the cell’s processes to replicate.
Viruses can be specific about the cells they attack.
For example, certain viruses attack cells in the liver, respiratory, or blood.
There are also viruses that attack plants and bacteria.
As with bacterial infections, the immune system responds to viral infections.
Bacterial Infections
All of the organs in our body are susceptible to bacterial infection.
How Are Bacterial Infections Transmitted?
There are many modes of transmission of bacteria.
Some illnesses can be minor, but some can be more severe.
How Are Viral Infections Transmitted?
Some viruses can be transmitted by respiratory droplets when a person talks, coughs, or sneezes.
They can also be transmitted by contaminated water or food.
Some viruses are spread through sexual contact or through contact with blood via needle or transfusion.
Common viral respiratory infections and their symptoms include:
Is My Infection Bacterial or Viral?
Differentiating between the two requires medical intervention since both may cause fever and irritability.
Treatments also vary significantly.
Symptoms
Depending on the pop in of bacterial or viral infection you may have, symptoms vary.
When you have a cold, your immune system sends white blood cells calledneutrophilsrushing to the area.
These cells contain a greenish-colored enzyme, and in large numbers they can turn the mucus the same color.
Always consult a healthcare professional to make the proper diagnosis for you.
Depending on possible exposures, they may refer you to testing for bacteria or viruses.
Severe respiratory infections may require more extensive treatment, which could include hospitalization.
Summary
Bacteria and viruses are very different pathogens (tiny organisms that cause disease).
However, they have some similarities.
Differentiating between bacterial and viral infections requires medical intervention.
Treatments also vary significantly.
Bacterial infections can be treated with antibiotics while viral infections cannot.
Some viral infections can be successfully treated with antiviral medications.
Common respiratory bacterial infections include strep throat and bacterial pneumonia.
Common viral respiratory infections include the common cold and influenza.
These infections can cause a range of symptoms and effects.
Your healthcare provider can use your symptoms and diagnostic testing to determine which specific infection you have.
Sometimes, you may need prescription medicine, such as antibiotics or antivirals, to treat your condition.
If you think you have a bacterial infection that needs treatment, talk to your doctor.
Frequently Asked Questions
The common cold is a viral infection that affects your upper respiratory system.
It can be triggered by many types of viruses, including rhinoviruses and some coronaviruses.
Many viral infections such as the common cold or flu can be self-managed without medical intervention.
If your symptoms do not improve or become worse, consult your healthcare professional as soon as possible.
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