Introduction
Understanding the physical differences between viruses and bacteria is essential for strengthening the effectiveness of treatment and preventive measures. Because there are some similarities between bacteria and viruses, they are often confused. Both of them are microscopic, which means that their small size requires a microscope to be seen, and both can cause severe illness in humans, animals, or plants, even though different types of viruses affect various species.
Comparison
Habitat of Bacteria
When it comes to the differences, while viruses and bacteria are of small size, viruses are comparatively smaller. Bacterial cells can sometimes be two hundred times larger than virus cells, while both remain microscopic.
In addition, what sets apart the cells of bacteria is that they are alive, which means that they can reproduce on their own, thus causing infections in people. Such cells are unique. They could also benefit the human body’s health because they work to fight off harmful bacteria and restore balance (Dr. Finch’s Lab, 2017). For example, Lactobacilli and Bifidobacterium are probiotic bacteria that help with digestive issues. Because of this, it is recommended to consume fermented foods that contain probiotics, such as yogurt, pickled vegetables, or sourdough bread (NIH, 2022).
Habitat of Viruses
In contrast, viruses do not actually live independently (classified between living and non-living organisms) because they need a host to reproduce. They can live on different surfaces, and once they get into the cell, they can multiply in quantities, thus causing a disease. Once a virus affects a cell, it can no longer perform its functions while affecting neighboring cells.
Viral Illnesses
Viruses tend to have a shorter course of illness, which ranges between two to ten days, depending on the immunity strength of the affected individual. They are only treated using antiviral medication, which a healthcare provider prescribes. A viral infection is diagnosed by a doctor who examines a patient and listens to the symptoms, even though additional testing is done in cases of severe inflammation. However, the most common methods include rest, getting enough sleep, and consuming warm liquids, with the immune system doing most of the work in overcoming illness. In case of fever, paracetamol can be administered as a relief method alongside the previously mentioned therapeutic measures.
Bacterial Illnesses
Bacterial illnesses usually take longer, from ten to twelve days, and are treated using antibiotics, which help to tackle the affected cells and stop the viruses from spreading and reproducing. In particular, amoxicillin, erythromycin, and ciprofloxacin are the most common medications used to treat bacterial infections (Williams, Friedrichsen, Sadler, & Brown,2018). It must be noted that the overuse or misuse of antibiotics is the main reason for developing drug-resistant pathogens.
Research suggests that antibiotic resistance is becoming a challenge because it leads to increased medical expenses, rising mortality rates, as well as prolonged hospital stays (Williams et al., 2018). A behavior change is urgently needed when it comes to the methods of prescribing and using antibiotics, even in instances when a new medication is developed. Resistance can remain a significant threat to the overall therapeutic process until there is no overuse or misuse of medications. Therefore, the right antibiotic must be prescribed to treat bacterial infections based on accurate diagnosis and testing.
Prevention of Infections
One of the critical principles behind preventing viral infections is maintaining the immune system’s strength to fight disease. For some virus infections that can be addressed through vaccines and antivirals, it is recommended to consider vaccination as a preventive approach. Taking vitamins, eating healthy, and leading an active lifestyle are all measures that strengthen immunity and make the body less susceptible to viruses (Monye & Adelowo, 2020).
Finally, proper hygiene measures such as handwashing and sanitizing surfaces are recommended as preventive tools to avoid getting infected. While a strong immunity is also essential to safeguard oneself from bacterial infections, the main preventive measures to keep germs away include avoiding close contact with sick people, trying not to touch one’s face or rub eyes, and covering sneezes and coughs (ECDC, 2022). It is also important not to share personal use items with other people due to the risks of bacterial contamination.
Conclusion
Understanding the difference between viruses and bacteria, the mechanisms behind their spreading, and their effect on the host organism is essential for formulating treatment and preventive measures. Research suggests that it is impossible to eliminate exposure to bacteria and viruses, while the overuse and misuse of antibiotics complicate the treatment of bacterial infections. The example of the COVID-19 pandemic showed that viruses could spread quickly and pose a severe danger to people with immunity issues and chronic diseases. Therefore, ongoing research is necessary to stay up-to-date with the recent developments in treatment and prevention, as well as the identification of potentially viral diseases that can affect millions of people.
References
Dr. Finch’s Lab. (2017). Viruses vs. bacteria | What’s the difference?YouTube. Web.
ECDC. (2022). Protect yourself against flu: Learn more about preventive measures. Web.
Monye, I., & Adelowo, A. B. (2020). Strengthening immunity through healthy lifestyle practices: Recommendations for lifestyle interventions in the management of COVID‐19. Lifestyle Medicine, 1(1), e7. Web.
NIH. (2022). Probiotics. Web.
Williams, M. E., Friedrichsen, P. J., Sadler, T. D., & Brown, P. J. B. (2018). Modelling the emergence of antibiotic resistance in bacterial populations. American Biology Teacher, 80(3), 214-220. Web.
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