Difference between viruses and bacteria

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Although viruses and bacteria are both microorganisms, they are different in many ways and you should know these differences so that you can properly prevent infection.

Viruses are living things that come in a variety of shapes and are very small. One of the largest viruses is only 450 nanometers long, or equivalent to a small type of bacteria. Viruses have a protein as the main component that coats the outer surface and is the center of the genetic material such as DNA (DNA) or RNA (RNA) of the virus. Viruses need to live in the cells of living things such as humans, animals or plants in order to multiply.

Bacteria are relatively complex single-cell organisms with a hard outer wall. And a thin membrane surrounding the fluid inside the cell. They can multiply without having to live inside the cell and can survive in a variety of environments, such as hot or cold places or inside the human body. Most bacteria are not harmful. Some bacteria are even consider probiotics, which are beneficial to our bodies. They help with digestion, destroy pathogenic microbes, fight cancer cells, and help absor nutrients. Less than 1% of bacteria can cause disease in humans.

  • Bacterial infection: Bacteria multiply rapidly and produce toxins that destroy body tissue. While most bacteria are beneficial to humans, some can cause illness and disease.

Even though viruses and bacteria are both microorganisms, it does not mean that they can be treat with antibiotics. Antibiotics are use to treat bacterial infections only. Antibiotics help stop the growth and division of bacteria, but they have no effect on viruses. If you have a viral infection, such as a common cold. The symptoms usually go away on their own within 1-2 weeks without the need for medication. And if you treat a viral infection with medication, it is usually to treat the symptoms. There is no specific cure.