WHAT IS VIRUS AND HOW IT IS DIFFERENT FROM BACTERIA
Answers
All viruses have is a protein coat and a core of genetic material, either RNA or DNA. Unlike bacteria, viruses can't survive without a host. They can only reproduce by attaching themselves to cells.
Bacteria and viruses differ in their structure and their response to medications.
Bacteria are single-celled, living organisms. They have a cell wall and all the components necessary to survive and reproduce, although some may derive energy from other sources.
Viruses are not considered to be “living” because they require a host cell to survive long-term, for energy, and to reproduce. Viruses consist of only one piece of genetic material and a protein shell called a capsid. They survive and reproduce by “hijacking” a host cell, and using its ribosomes to make new viral proteins.
Less than 1% of bacteria cause disease. Most are beneficial for our good health and the health of Earth’s ecosystems. Most viruses cause disease.
Antibiotics may be used to treat some bacterial infections, but they do not work against viruses. Some severe bacterial infections may be prevented by vaccination.
Vaccination is the primary way to prevent viral infections; however, antivirals have been engineered that can treat some viral infections, such as Hepatitis C or HIV. Antivirals are not effective against bacteria.
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Viruses, like the common cold or influenza are not alive and must invade living cells to grow. The body’s own immune system must fight off the virus or let it run its course. Viral infections are usually accompanied by multiple symptoms such as a sore throat, runny nose, congestion, vomiting and diarrhea.
Bacteria are living organisms and can be found everywhere. There are times when the body’s immune system may not be able to fight off a bacterial infection. Antibiotics work to kill the bacteria by stopping its growth. Bacterial infections often go together with pain, aches, or sore areas of the body.
Both viral and bacterial infections are spread the same way:
- Sneezing/coughing
- Shaking hands
- Touching food with dirty hands
- Contact with body fluids such as blood and saliva
There is really no way to prevent your child from coming in contact with germs, but there are steps you can take to help prevent them from spreading. Encourage your child to wash his or her hands after meals and snacks and playing with toys. Hand sanitizers are just as effective as soap and water. If your child is sick, keep him or her home from daycare, school, grocery stores and other public places.
A thorough examination by your child’s doctor will be helpful in distinguishing between viral and bacterial infections.