Viral versus Bacterial Infections


Although the winter months bring cheer, snowmen and togetherness, they also bring unwanted infections, which can put a damper on your celebrations. Infections can be placed into two categories: viral and bacterial.

“Though both types of infections are similar in many aspects, there are distinct differences between bacterial and viral infections,” says Kurtis Dornan, M.D., of Cleveland Clinic Family Medicine – Rockport. Both viral and bacterial infections are classified as pathogens, or dangerous microscopic organisms, which cause some sort of illness to humans.

“Common viral infections, such as upper respiratory infections (URIs) and bronchitis, can characteristically be detected by runny nose, dry cough, low-grade fever, sore throat, watery eyes, difficulty sleeping and persistent joint ache and pain”, says Dr. Dornan. Influenza is another viral infection that can cause many of the same symptoms. “Fortunately, if detected within the first 48 hours, the flu can be shortened by antiviral medication such as Relenza (zanamivir) or Tamiflu (oseltamivir). So you should make an effort to consult with your family physician to see if you are a candidate for the medication.”

One thing to keep in mind is that most antibiotics will not be effective in treating viral infections or speed up recovery from a cold.

“Bacterial infections, on the other hand, can be and should be treated with by antibiotics,” says Dr. Dornan. The most common bacterial infection among children and teenagers is strep throat, which is caused by Group A Streptococcus bacteria. Strep throat should be treated immediately with antibiotics to reduce the risk of rheumatic heart disease/fever or kidney disease.

Bacterial infections include pharyngitis, sinusitis, ear infections and pneumonia, although pneumonia can also be viral. “These infections are oftentimes the result of what we call a "secondary infection," which means some type of virus initiated the process and a type of bacteria followed”, says Dr. Dornan.

One way to tell the difference between a viral and bacterial infection is the length of the illness. Most viral infections will clear-up in one to two weeks. A bacterial infection’s symptoms will persist much longer. “For example,” says Dr. Dornan, “a runny nose that continues beyond 10-14 days may be sign of a sinus infection that needs an antibiotic.”

Feeling sick and wondering what you should do? Error on the side of caution if the patient is under six months of age, or over 65 years old. “However, I cannot stress enough that requesting an antibiotic for an illness is not always warranted,” says Dr. Dornan. “Today we are finding more strains of bacterial infections that are resistant to antibiotics.”

Dr. Dornan offers the following simple tips on lowering the chance of contracting an illness this winter:

• Get a flu shot

• Be mindful of what you touch and wash your hands often! It is recommended that you wash your hands with soap and clean running water for 20 seconds. However, if soap and clean water are not available, use an alcohol-based product to clean your hands.

• Limit exposure to infected people

• Practice healthy habits, such as eating a healthy dies and incorporating regular exercise into your life!

• If you do get sick, drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration, and most importantly stay home and rest.



To schedule an appointment with Dr. Dornan, call Cleveland Clinic Family Medicine – Rockport at 216.529.7125.

Cleveland Clinic Family Medicine – Rockport
11851 Detroit Avenue
Lakewood, Ohio 44107