Viruses and Bacterial Infections | What's the difference?

Growing up, you've probably never known the difference between a virus or bacterial infection. I know I didn't. Whenever I came down with a common cold or sickness, I simply took whatever was on hand in the medicine cabinet.

"I'm sure all medicine will work the same anyway." I reassured myself.

However, what will you do when nothing appears to be alleviating the flu you caught in late December, and all those antibiotics not only fail to improve your condition but actually make it worse? Well, I remember my 10th grade biology class, in which my teacher, Mrs. Magby, made it exceptionally clear that viruses are not the same thing as bacteria. You see, while one is alive, the other seems to be a debate whether it is alive or not.

Bacteria

Biologically, bacteria are single celled organisms, otherwise known as prokaryotes. Unlike eukaryotic human cells, prokaryotic cells lack a nucleus and membrane bound organelles, meaning that while they do have organelles, they aren't as complex as eukaryotic organelles. Bacteria have cell walls that provide strength and structure, allowing the cell to grow, reproduce, and regulate what comes in and out. Whether it be inside or outside the body, bacteria can survive on their own, reproduce on their own, and can survive in extreme heat and cold.

In fact, you may believe that all bacteria are harmful, however that's far from the truth. In reality, we have plenty of bacteria in our bodies to help it function. Specifically, we have bacteria in our intestines and stomach called "gut microbiota" that work together to provide vitamins, immune defense, and digestions. On the contrary, bacterial infections are common and you can get them in any part of your body, including your gut, skin, sinuses, and urinary tract. In addition, these infections stem from bacteria entering the body through ways such as your mouth, eyes, nose, or contact with blood. All in which, when bacteria is transmitted, it is able to increase in number which causes an immune (a person's resistance to a disease) reaction.

Viruses

Viruses are not considered alive and can only last a few minutes without a host. They are microscopic particles, smaller than bacteria, consisting of genetic material (either DNA or RNA) inside of a protein coating. This protein coating, known as the capsid, serves as a shield for the genetic material, protecting it from environmental factors and containing surface proteins that allow the virus to attach to host cells. Viruses require a host—such as humans, animals, plants, or bacterial cells—to replicate and survive, as they cannot reproduce on their own. Essentially, they carry the genetic instructions to produce more copies of themselves within the host. This virus can spread to other parts of the body and infect new organisms.

The flu, common cold, and COVID-19 are all common diseases and are life-threatening. These viruses can be contagious and some spread through the air in respiratory droplets when someone with the virus sneezes, coughs or exhales. However, not all viruses are bad either. Some viruses are used as treatments in alternative to antibiotics, such as bacteriophages. Bacteriophages can be found in the intestines to target and eliminate bacteria, including harmful ones. Some traditional vaccines even contain part a weakened form of the virus that it is trying to fight. By weakening this virus and inputting it into our bodies, it enhances our immune system's ability to fight off the actual virus if ever exposed to it in the future.

Difference in Treatments

Bacterial infections can be directly treated, while viruses must be managed in order to be resolved. In some cases, bacterial infections can subside on its own, however, if that is not the case, a physician can prescribe antibiotics. Antibiotics are chemical compounds designed to target and destroy the bacteria's growth by blocking a cellular process that's necessary for the bacteria to continue to grow. There are many ways to prevent bacterial infections such as antiseptics and disinfectants. Antiseptics are used on living tissues to reduce the risk of infection, such as before surgery or on minor wounds. Disinfectants are applied to non-living surfaces to kill bacteria and other pathogens, ensuring clean environments and medical instruments. Both help prevent and control bacterial infections effectively.

Viruses can't be treated with antibiotics because of the protein coating that surrounds them. While bacteria have cell walls that make it possible to be attacked and destroyed by antibiotics, the protein coating allows them to be resistant. Treating your body with antibiotics at this point may cause more damage than good, as it can promote antibiotic-resistant properties. In this case, the bacteria eventually evade to the effect of antibiotics and will make it more difficult or impossible to treat in the future. The best way to manage the virus is by focusing on reliving symptoms. While your immune system combats the virus on its own, its best to rest, hydrate, and taking over-the-counter medicine. Additionally, it's also possible to use antiviral medicines to support recovery and stop viral reproduction.

Bacterial and viral infections can be sometimes difficult to diagnose. Observing the varying symptoms closely can help to identify whether or not it is bacterial or viral. It helps to ask a healthcare provider and get a careful review of your symptoms and lab results to figure out the best treatment plan.