Is It A Virus Or A Bacterial Infection?
Winter is here. People are getting together indoors -- sometimes in close quarters. It’s prime season for the spread of illnesses – especially among children; that’s because their immune systems are still developing and they are exposed to germs at school and daycare.
What are the Most Common Illnesses?
Family medicine physicians and providers are seeing an increasing number of children who are sick from viruses, bacterial infections and rashes. Common symptoms include:
- Fever
- Colds and upper respiratory illnesses
- Coughs
- Sore throat
- Ear infections
- Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) a common respiratory virus that infects the lungs, throat, and nose
- Influenza
- Gastroenteritis (stomach bug)
“Viruses and bacteria enter the body through close contact with an infected person; breathing in droplets from an infected person’s cough or sneeze; ingesting contaminated food or water; and through cuts on the skin,” explained Britany Gnus, FNP-BC, a board-certified family nurse practitioner with Penn Highlands Family Medicine. “The T-zone on your face, which includes the eyes, nose and mouth, is a common entry point for germs and infections because people touch their faces often without washing their hands.”
What is the Difference between a Viral Infection and a Bacterial Infection?
“The difference between a viral infection and a bacterial infection is the type of microorganism that causes it,” said Britany. “A virus is a non-living organism that requires a host to reproduce it. Viruses enter and multiply inside the host’s healthy cells whereas bacterial are single-celled organisms that can live independently inside or outside the body.”
While both bacterial and viral infections are often spread in the same manner and can cause similar symptoms, their treatments differ. Antibiotics are used to treat bacterial infections. Most viruses need to run their course, while some antiviral medications can help the person recover faster.
How Can You Tell if it is a Viral Infection or a Bacterial Infection?
Both viral infections and bacterial infections can have similar symptoms making it difficult to know the difference. Common symptoms of both include:
- Sneezing
- Coughing
- Fever
- Inflammation
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Fatigue
- Cramping
Viruses frequently affect the respiratory and digestive systems, but they can cause issues in other parts of the body too.
For an expert diagnosis and treatment options, it is best to consult a family medicine physician or provider. By conducting a physical exam and lab tests, if needed, they will be able to determine if the illness is viral or bacterial.
From medical care for a sick child to annual physicals, Penn Highlands Healthcare provides family medicine and pediatric care for children and adolescents throughout Pennsylvania. To find a provider near you, visit www.phhealthcare.org/primarycare.
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