Difference between infectious and viral disease. Differences in the pathological process depending on the pathogen

VIRUS or BACTERIA: how to tell?

• So, let me remind you that there is a common name “ARD” that describes all infectious diseases of the respiratory tract. They have special cases - viral (ARVI) and bacterial.
• I have already said that in the majority (~95%) the cause of acute respiratory infections is viruses, less often (~5%) - bacteria
• The first symptom of ANY infection is fever. When the temperature rises, the doctor’s primary task is to exclude bacterial infection(and not a decrease in temperature, as this part seems to parents).
• The diagnosis is made by a DOCTOR based mainly on EXAMINATION. Other tests should be additional (blood and urine tests, x-rays, streptate tests, bacterial cultures from the lesion, etc.).
• For respiratory viruses, “favorite” cells are cells respiratory tract: Most acute respiratory viral infections proceed in approximately the same way. The most common symptoms of ARVI are: cough, runny nose, sneezing, fever, hoarseness, sore throat.
• There are no exact signs to differentiate between a viral or bacterial infection, but there are some indirect signs.

What can speak in favor of the virus?

• someone else in the house is sick
• symptoms characteristic of ARVI are noted
• after the temperature drops, the child feels well and is active (runs, plays, etc.)
• the temperature is quite high (38C and above), rises sharply

What should alert you and can speak in favor of bacterial infections?

• no one except the child got sick
• severe intoxication (weakness, lethargy, drowsiness, refusal to eat and drink, photophobia) (influenza is an exception, with influenza intoxication will also be very pronounced)
• there are some symptoms that are not characteristic of ARVI (this is assessed by the doctor when examining the child)
• against the background of a decrease in temperature, the child continues to be weak
• there are changes in the blood test characteristic of a bacterial infection
• changes in the blood test are not always present, but in most cases. They are assessed by a doctor.

- Among the most common bacterial infections in children are: otitis media, lymphadenitis, abscesses, arthritis, pneumonia, in children >3 years old - also sinusitis (sinusitis, from 5 years old - sphenoiditis, from 7-8 years old - frontal sinusitis)

— These differences should be established by the DOCTOR during the first examination of the child

— The doctor makes a diagnosis that indicates the localization of the infectious process (only in 20% of cases the focus cannot be identified).

1️. Usually the following diseases associated with bacteria:

• pyelonephritis
• adenoiditis
• skin and soft tissue infection
• less often: meningitis, osteomyelitis, arthritis, etc.

2️. The most common causes of viruses are:

• bronchitis and bronchiolitis
• rhinitis and nasopharyngitis
• false croup
• gastroenteritis

PLEASE NOTE: BOTH VIRUSES AND BACTERIA can be caused by:

• pharyngitis, tonsillitis, pneumonia, otitis media, sinusitis, stomatitis, lyphadenitis and other diseases
• There are more than 200 viruses. For a doctor or parent, it does not matter which virus causes the disease. Treatment exists only for the influenza virus, the herpes virus. For other viruses, the tactics are the same and there are no drugs that destroy the virus; therefore, there is no point in treating a “red throat”, runny nose, “cough”, etc. We can alleviate the symptoms of a child’s illness, but this will not affect the cause itself (the virus).
• The likelihood of developing bacterial infections is reduced by hardening, other restorative procedures, as well as vaccination, first of all, against pneumococcus, Haemophilus influenzae, influenza, meningococcus, and other vaccines included in the national calendar.
• If a bacterial infection is confirmed, then taking an antibiotic is REQUIRED.

Take care of your children!

Candidate of Sciences and mother, pediatrician and neonatologist, Levadnaya Anna Viktorovna

Quite possible. No need for this specialized knowledge. You just have to listen to the advice of pediatricians and carefully monitor the patient’s condition. Which, in turn, will be a good help in correct positioning diagnosis and choice of treatment tactics.

How to distinguish a viral infection from a bacterial one? Komarovsky gives advice

Well-known pediatrician Evgeny Komarovsky argues that it is very important for parents to understand the main differences between viruses and bacteria. To do this, it is worth understanding how viruses work.

Their fundamental feature is that they are not able to reproduce without other cells. Viruses invade a cell and force it to produce copies of them. Thus, in each infected cell there are several thousand of them. In this case, the cell most often dies or becomes unable to perform its functions, which causes certain symptoms of the disease in a person.

Viruses are selective in their choice of cells

By the way, another feature of viruses can tell you how to distinguish a viral infection from a bacterial one. Komarovsky in his works argues that these microorganisms are very selective in choosing a cell suitable for reproduction. And they capture only those who they can then force to work for themselves. For example, the hepatitis virus can only multiply in liver cells, but prefers the cells of the mucous membranes of the bronchi or trachea.

In addition, it can cause certain diseases only in specific biological species. For example, precisely because the virus smallpox could exist only in the human body, it completely disappeared from nature after the introduction mandatory vaccinations, which were held all over the world for 22 years.

What determines the severity of a viral infection?

How to distinguish a viral infection from a bacterial one can be understood by the characteristics of the course of the viral infection. They depend on which cells and in what quantity were affected by it. It is clear that the penetration of viruses into brain cells, for example in encephalitis, is much more dangerous condition than their damage to the nasal mucosa during influenza.

The course of the disease is also influenced by the fact that human cells change in a certain way during life. So, due to the fact that in babies the main liver cells (hepatocytes) are not yet formed, it is difficult for viruses to develop in them, and therefore babies under one year of age practically do not suffer from hepatitis A. In older children, this disease passes quite easily, but in adults hepatitis - serious disease. The same applies to viruses, causing rubella, measles and chickenpox.

By the way, in some cases, a virus, having penetrated a cell, does not develop in it, but subsides, being there in a “sleeping” state, ready, if the opportunity arises, to pose the question of how to distinguish a viral infection from a bacterial one in adults and children.

ARVI: signs of these diseases

In our reasoning, we cannot miss the fact that ARVI includes not just one disease, but a whole group of ailments, which are based on infection with a large number of different viruses.

In order to distinguish one virus from another, tests are required. But they are carried out by doctors if necessary, and for parents it will be enough to remember how to distinguish a viral infection from a bacterial one.

The most characteristic sign of ARVI is a rapid onset. If the upper respiratory tract is affected, you can observe:

• strong rise in temperature, up to 40 ° C (it all depends on the pathogen);
• acute rhinitis - profuse discharge from the nose clear slime, which is often accompanied by lacrimation;
• soreness and pain appear in the throat, the voice becomes hoarse, and a dry cough occurs;
• the patient feels symptoms of general intoxication: muscle aches, weakness, chills, headache and lack of appetite.

How Evgeny Komarovsky describes bacterial infections

Explaining how to distinguish a viral infection from a bacterial one in a child, Komarovsky separately talks about the characteristics of bacteria.

Bacteria are microorganisms that, unlike viruses, can develop independently. The main thing for them is to find appropriate place for nutrition and reproduction, and this causes diseases in human body.

Many solutions have been invented to fight bacteria medicines(antibiotics). But these microorganisms also have another unique feature - they mutate, adapting to new conditions and making it difficult to get rid of them.

Bacteria most often do not require a specific place to live, like viruses. Staphylococcus, for example, can exist anywhere, causing inflammatory processes and in the lungs, and on the skin, and in the bones, and in the intestines.

How dangerous are bacteria for the human body?

And, of course, the main thing in the question of how to distinguish a viral infection from a bacterial one is to determine the harm that certain microorganisms can cause.

If we talk about bacteria, then it itself, as a rule, does not cause much damage to our body. The greatest danger lies in the products of its vital activity - toxins, which are nothing more than poisons. It's them specific impact on our body and explains the symptoms of each specific disease.

The human body reacts to both the bacterium and its toxins in the same way as to viruses, producing antibodies.

By the way, most bacteria produce toxins during the process of their death. And they are called endotoxins. A small number of bacteria release toxins during their life processes (exotoxins). They are considered the most dangerous poisons of all known. Under their influence, diseases such as tetanus, diphtheria, gas gangrene, botulism and

What do symptoms of respiratory tract disease caused by bacteria look like?

Knowing how to distinguish a viral infection from a bacterial one, you will not miss the beginning of a new wave of the disease.

A bacterial infection quite often joins an existing viral one, since the latter manages to greatly weaken the patient’s immunity. That is, otitis media, sinusitis, tonsillitis or other diseases are added to the existing symptoms of ARVI.

The onset of a bacterial infection is usually not pronounced (the temperature rises slightly and gradually, the general condition changes imperceptibly), but the course may be more severe. And if a viral infection is expressed by a general malaise, then a bacterial infection, as a rule, has a clear dislocation. That is, you can always understand what exactly the bacteria affected - the nose (sinusitis), ear (acute, moderate or purulent otitis media) or throat (bacterial sore throat).

• Thick discharge appears from the nose purulent discharge. The cough is most often wet, and sputum is difficult to clear.
• Plaque forms on the tonsils. Signs of bronchitis appear.

Unfortunately, bacteria, as you have already seen, can cause more serious problems- bronchitis, pneumonia or even meningitis. Therefore, combating them with antibiotics is extremely necessary to prevent severe development diseases. But remember, only a doctor prescribes these medications!

How to distinguish a viral infection from a bacterial one using a blood test

Of course, the main difference between bacterial and viral infections will be the results of blood tests.

So, in the presence of viruses, the number of leukocytes does not increase, and sometimes it is even slightly lower than normal. can only change due to an increase in the number of monocytes and lymphocytes, as well as a decrease in the number of neutrophils. In this case, the ESR may increase slightly, although in cases with severe ARVI it may be high.

Bacterial infections usually lead to an increase in the number of white blood cells, which is provoked by an increase in the number of neutrophils. Percentage lymphocytes decrease, but the number of young forms - myelocytes - increases. ESR is most often quite high.

The main signs by which you can distinguish between viral and bacterial infections

So, let's summarize how to distinguish a viral infection from a bacterial one in children and adults. The general symptoms of all viral infections can be summarized as follows:

• from the moment of infection to the first manifestations of the disease, one to three days pass;
• Symptoms of intoxication and allergies to viruses last another day or three;
• and the disease itself begins with a high temperature, and its first signs are rhinitis, pharyngitis and conjunctivitis.

Bacteria, unlike viruses, develop more slowly. Very often, a bacterial infection is layered on top of an existing viral disease. The main sign of a bacterial infection is a clearly defined site of its “application”. Now let’s list the signs of a bacterial infection again:

• slow onset, often manifesting as a second wave of viral infection;
• long (up to 2 weeks) period from the onset of infection to the first manifestations of the disease;
• Not good heat and clear expression of the lesion.

Don't delay consulting a doctor!

Knowing how to distinguish a viral infection from a bacterial one in a child using a blood test and common features However, do not try to draw conclusions and prescribe treatment on your own.

And in the situations listed below urgent Care a specialist is urgently needed:

• the patient’s temperature rises to 40 °C and above and is also difficult to control with antipyretic drugs;
• consciousness becomes confused or fainting appears;
• a rash or minor hemorrhages appear on the body;
• painful sensations during breathing are recorded in the chest, as well as difficulty breathing (a particularly serious sign is the release of pink sputum when coughing);
• green or green discharge appears from the respiratory tract Brown having blood admixtures;
• chest pain occurs that does not depend on breathing.

Do not hesitate to consult a doctor, and the patient’s health will be restored!

The human body is subject to the most various diseases, and most of them are infectious. And such diseases can be bacterial or viral in nature. It is important to immediately determine what pathogen caused the disease in order to select correct treatment. But to do this, you need to know how to distinguish a viral infection from a bacterial one. In fact, there are differences, knowing which, you can quite easily determine the type of pathogen.

Signs of a viral infection

Viruses are non-cellular organisms that need to invade a living cell to reproduce. Exists great amount viruses that cause various pathologies, but the most common are those that provoke the development of the so-called colds. Scientists count more than 30,000 such microbial agents, among which the influenza virus is the best known. As for the rest, they all cause ARVI.

Even before going to the doctor, it is useful to know how to determine that a child or adult has an acute respiratory viral infection. There are many signs indicating a viral origin of inflammation:

• short incubation period, up to 5 days;
• body aches even with low-grade fever;
• temperature rise above 38 degrees;
• high fever;
• severe symptoms of intoxication ( headache, weakness, drowsiness);
• cough;
• nasal congestion;
• severe redness of the mucous membranes (in some cases);
• available loose stool, vomit;
• sometimes a skin rash;
• The duration of viral infection is up to 10 days.

Of course, all the symptoms listed above do not necessarily appear in every case, since different groups of viruses cause diseases with different symptoms. Some provoke a rise in temperature up to 40 degrees, intoxication, but without a runny nose or cough, although upon examination redness of the throat is visible. Others cause a severe runny nose, but low-grade fever without severe weakness or headache. In addition, a viral infection can have either an acute or mild onset. Much also depends on the “specialization” of the virus: some types cause a runny nose, others cause inflammation of the walls of the pharynx, and so on. But a characteristic feature of each such disease is that it lasts no more than 10 days, and from about 4-5 days the symptoms begin to decrease.

Signs of a bacterial infection

To have an idea of ​​how to distinguish a viral infection from a bacterial one, it is important to know the features of the pathogenesis of both types of diseases. The following symptoms are characteristic of a bacterial infection:

• incubation period from 2 to 12 days;
• the pain is localized only at the site of the lesion;
• low-grade fever (while inflammation is not very developed);
• severe redness of the mucous membranes (only with severe inflammation);
• formation of purulent abscesses;
• purulent discharge;
• white-yellow plaque in the throat;
• intoxication (lethargy, fatigue, headache);
• apathy;
• decreased or complete lack of appetite;
• exacerbation of migraine;
• the illness lasts more than 10-12 days.

In addition to this symptom complex, a characteristic feature of bacterial infections is that they do not go away on their own, and without treatment the symptoms only get worse.

That is, if ARVI can go away without specific treatment, just stick to it correct mode, accept restoratives, vitamins, then bacterial inflammation will progress until antibiotics are started.

This is the main difference when it comes to colds.

Diagnostics

On the other hand, doctors are often faced with the question of how to distinguish a bacterial infection from a viral one, based not only on symptoms. To do this, laboratory tests are carried out, first of all, a general blood test is done. Based on its results, you can understand whether the disease was caused by a viral or bacterial infection.

A general blood test reflects indicators such as the number of red blood cells, platelets, hemoglobin, and leukocytes. During the study, the leukocyte formula and erythrocyte sedimentation rate are determined. Depending on these indicators, the type of infection is determined.

The most important values ​​for diagnosis are the total number of leukocytes, leukocyte formula(the ratio of several types of leukocytes) and ESR.

As for the erythrocyte sedimentation rate, it varies depending on the state of the body. IN normal ESR in women it is from 2 to 20 mm/h, in men - from 2 to 15 mm/h, in children under 12 years old - from 4 to 17 mm/h.

Blood test for ARVI

If the disease is caused by a virus, the test results will be as follows:

• the white blood cell count is normal or slightly below normal;
• increased number of lymphocytes and monocytes;
• decreased neutrophil levels;
• ESR is slightly reduced or normal.

Blood test for bacterial infection

In cases where the cause of the disease is various pathogenic bacilli and cocci, the study reveals the following clinical picture:

• increase in leukocytes;
• an increase in the level of neutrophils, but this may be normal;
• decrease in the number of lymphocytes;
• presence of metamyelocytes, myelocytes;
• increase in ESR.

Not everyone may understand what metamyelocytes and myelocytes are. These are also blood elements that are normally not detected during analysis, since they are contained in bone marrow. But if problems with hematopoiesis occur, such cells can be detected. Their appearance indicates a severe inflammatory process.

The importance of differential diagnosis

It is important to know the difference between a bacterial and a viral infection, since the whole point is different approach to their treatment.

Everyone knows that antibacterial therapy does not act on viruses, so there is no point in prescribing antibiotics for ARVI.

Rather, they will only cause harm - after all, such drugs destroy not only pathogenic, but also beneficial microorganisms that partially form the immune system. But in case of a bacterial infection, the prescription of antibiotics is mandatory, otherwise the body will not cope with the disease, and it will at least become chronic.

This is what makes diseases different. However, despite the differences, sometimes the same therapy is prescribed for bacterial and viral infections. As a rule, this approach is practiced in pediatrics: even with an obvious viral infection, antibiotics are prescribed. The reason is simple: children's immunity is still weak, and in almost all cases the virus is accompanied by a bacterial infection, so prescribing antibiotics is completely justified.

nashainfekciya.ru

ARVI in children: How to distinguish a viral infection from a bacterial one?

child's health 1 month - 1 year Colds, unfortunately, are a very common phenomenon. Children get colds much more often than adults. And now there’s a runny nose, fever, cough. I want to cure the disease as quickly as possible.

Colds, unfortunately, are a very common phenomenon. Children get colds much more often than adults. And now there’s a runny nose, fever, cough. I want to cure the disease as quickly as possible. How can you find out what is wrong with your little one? After all, this is important in order to carry out treatment correctly.

Any physician, as a student, spends several years studying how viral infections differ from bacterial ones. Parents need to know that the exact nature of the disease can only be determined by clinical analysis urine and blood! However there is distinctive features between viral and bacterial infections, which are noticeable even to a person without medical education.

How does ARVI manifest in children?

One of the most frequently diagnosed diagnoses is ARVI. Stands for acute respiratory viral infections. This is the most common morbidity rate in childhood disease. For infants it is dangerous because it can cause a large number of serious complications. There are now about 200 viruses; it is extremely important to quickly find out which virus your baby is suffering from.

To distinguish ARVI caused by viruses from ARVI caused by bacteria, parents of the baby need to know how these diseases proceed.

With acute respiratory viral infections in children, the time from the onset of the disease to the manifestation of symptoms is from one to five days, with bacterial infections this period is longer, up to two weeks. Another special feature: with ARVI in children, the onset of the disease is always very noticeable, the temperature rises sharply, especially at night, and with infections caused by bacteria, the temperature does not exceed 38.

ARVI in children manifests itself with the following symptoms:

• a sharp increase in temperature, especially at night, up to 39-40 degrees
• the baby becomes capricious or, conversely, lethargic
• chills appear profuse sweating, headache
• sometimes there may be a sore throat,
• runny nose with transparent discharge
• sneezing
• feeling of muscle soreness

For any type of cold, the main thing your baby needs is drinking plenty of fluids

With ARVI in children, especially at the very beginning of the disease, the virus that affects the child’s upper respiratory tract always causes allergic reactions and swelling. In this case, the child may well not be allergic. However, when treating ARVI, it is advisable to give the baby antiallergic medications.

Characteristic signs of a viral infection are a runny nose with watery, clear discharge, as well as redness of the baby’s eyes. With bacterial infections, these symptoms are extremely rare.

Treating ARVI at home

It is very important that the baby is diagnosed by a doctor. At the first sign that your baby is getting sick, call a doctor at home. Only a doctor can accurately assess the complexity of the disease, its nature and prescribe treatment. Parents' independent desire to treat infant may result in serious complications. Don't take unnecessary risks!

For any type of cold, the main thing is that the baby needs plenty of fluids. Even a child under one year of age can drink up to one and a half liters of liquid. The drink should not be hot; it is better if it is fortified drinks, fruit drinks, or decoctions.

The room where your baby is staying during illness must be wet cleaned every day and be sure to ventilate it. Viruses remain viable for more than 24 hours in dry, warm and dusty air, and die instantly in clean and cool air.

Newborn babies do not have the opportunity to blow their nose. If you do not use it to clean your nose during a runny nose, you may experience bacterial complications. You need to very carefully clean the nasal passages of a newborn with a turunda or a small bulb.

Antibiotics are useless for ARVI; needed here antivirals. But for bacterial infections, antibiotics are effective and necessary. Parents need to remember that antibiotics cause the death of all bacteria, including beneficial ones. After treatment with antibiotics, the baby almost always develops intestinal dysbiosis.

Parents need to remember that uncontrolled use of any drugs is deadly for newborns. The first thing you should do if your child gets sick is to consult a pediatrician.

Forewarned is forearmed - prevention of ARVI

Viral infections are transmitted through the air, through things that have been exposed to the virus, and through personal contact.

Viral infections usually occur in autumn, winter and spring. The most common cause of the disease is hypothermia. That is why it is important for parents to monitor how the baby is dressed. During a walk, you need to check with your own hands whether your baby’s hands are warm. Make sure your child does not overheat. A sweaty baby becomes hypothermic very quickly and may get sick.

During epidemics, you need to reduce your child’s stay in places where there may be sick people: shops, clinics, public transport.

If one of the adults or other children in the family is sick, if possible, you should isolate him from the newborn in another room. If this is not possible, then the sick person must put a mask on his face and change it regularly.

The main prevention of ARVI is to increase your little one’s immunity. It has long been known that more than two-thirds of a child’s immunity status is determined by lifestyle. Regular walks in the fresh air all year round, compliance elementary rules hygiene, sleep in a ventilated area, healthy natural nutrition This is what will help your immune system.

It is important to teach your child to harden from early childhood. This could be, for starters, rubbing off with a damp towel, or simple gymnastic exercises that you will do together. It is always easier to prevent a disease than to overcome it.

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maminclub.kz

How to distinguish a viral infection from a bacterial one?

Viruses and bacteria are the main causes of acute respiratory viral infections and acute respiratory infections. But they have absolutely different structure and the mechanism of development in the human body, therefore the approach to the treatment of inflammatory pathologies must correspond to the pathogen. For development proper therapy you need to know exactly how to distinguish a viral infection from a bacterial one, pay attention to them specific symptoms.

How is a viral infection different from a bacterial one?

A combination of protein and nucleic acids that enters a living cell and modifies it is a virus. To spread and develop, it definitely needs a carrier.

A bacterium is a full-fledged living cell that can reproduce independently. To function, it only needs favorable conditions.

The differences between viral and bacterial infections lie in the causative agent of the disease. But it can be quite difficult to notice the difference between them, especially if the pathology has affected the respiratory tract - the symptoms of both types of disease are very similar.

How to determine whether an infection is bacterial or viral?

Difference between characteristic features the described forms of lesions are so insignificant that even doctors do not make an accurate diagnosis based solely on clinical manifestations diseases. The best way to distinguish viral pathology from a bacterial infection, consists of clinical trial blood. Counting the number of specific cells biological fluid helps to accurately identify the causative agent of the disease.

You can independently try to determine the nature of the pathology using the following symptoms:

1. Incubation period:

• viral infection (VI) – up to 5 days;
• bacterial infection (BI) – up to 12 days.

2. Localization of inflammation:

• VI – all organs and systems of the body are affected, including musculoskeletal system(aching bones, joints), skin (rashes);
• BI - pain syndrome and discomfort concentrated only at the site of the inflammatory process.

3. Body temperature:

• VI – high fever, more than 38 degrees;
• BI – low-grade fever, intense hyperthermia is observed only with severe inflammation.

4. Duration of the disease:

• VI – from 3 to 10 days;
• BI – more than 12 days.

5. General state:

• VI – weakness, headache, drowsiness, feeling “broken”;
• BI - clearly localized pain syndrome, purulent abscesses or discharge.

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womanadvice.ru

How to distinguish a viral infection from a bacterial one

The question of how to distinguish a viral infection from a bacterial one is acute during diagnosis, because precise definition pathogen may be of paramount importance to initiate proper and successful treatment bacterial or viral infection in children and adults. It is necessary to take into account the fact that a viral infection/bacterial infection in children, as well as the symptoms of a viral infection/signs of a bacterial infection in the pediatric generation, may differ from how a viral disease or bacterial disease may proceed in the adult population. A good example would be to determine how, for example, ARVI (respiratory illness) differs from bacterial tonsillitis, despite the fact that a certain symptom (or group of symptoms), especially at the beginning of an acute respiratory viral infection, may have a manifestation similar to how tonsillitis manifests itself, antibiotics are not used for viruses, because They are ineffective against these pathogens.

The same applies to the main manifestations. Thus, a headache due to a viral infection, as well as a high temperature, are no different from a bacterial infection.

At first glance, it seems that viral and bacterial infections in a child and an adult are no different. However, there are differences, and they are significant. For example, the treatment of a bacterial infection requires something different (antibiotics) than a viral infection, in particular, ARVI, for which it is recommended mainly bed rest and plenty of fluids.

Thus, the question of how to identify, recognize and subsequently treat diseases such as viral and bacterial infections is an urgent one.

First of all, you should find out how it can manifest itself viral disease(except how contagious it is) and what are the signs of a viral infection, in particular ARVI.

Warning! This article is a guide only. It is up to the attending physician to determine whether there is a virus or bacteria. He also decides how to treat the disease (introduce antibiotics or not). Regardless of the causative agent of the disease, an infected person should not try to overcome the disease! Remember, with ARVI, antibiotics, in most cases, do not work, and if the treatment is insufficient, the problem may appear again.

The fundamental fact in how to distinguish a bacterial infection from a viral one is the differences between bacteria and viruses in size, nucleic acids, anatomy, morphology and metabolic activity. Generally, bacteria are larger than viruses. The size of bacterial cells ranges from a few microns to a micrometer. Viral particles, by comparison, are smaller, on the order of only a few nanometers or microns. A bacterial cell has both NCs (nucleic acids), DNA and RNA, while viral particles have only one (either DNA or RNA). A virus is not a cell. Unlike bacterial cells, the virus does not have metabolic activity and requires a living host cell to proliferate. Viruses are grown in living cell cultures (virus replication occurs inside the cell), while bacteria can grow in nutrient soils.

Characteristics of viral infection

Incubation period

It ranges from 1 to 5 days, depending on the pathogen. At this time, the first signs of the disease begin to appear, such as cough, runny nose, and fever.

Prodromal phase

This period is characterized by such phenomena as mood changes and fatigue.

Initial phase of the disease

Viral infections develop quickly and are characterized by vivid symptoms. Comes to sharp increase temperatures up to fever, severe runny nose, headache, cough... These manifestations, however, are not obligatory - sometimes local signs may be present. Allergic manifestations are often present, affecting the eyes or nose.

Viral infection, usually lasts for about a week.

Treatment

Rest, reception antiviral drugs prescribed medications, plenty of fluids. Not recommended antibiotic drugs, because Not only are they not effective against viruses, but they can also cause complications.

Characteristics of bacterial infection

Incubation period

This period, in the case of the presence of bacteria as the causative agent of the disease, has a much greater range than with a virus - from 2 days to 2 weeks.

Prodromal phase

IN more cases it is absent.

Initial phase of the disease

With a bacterial infection, there is usually no fever (if the temperature rises, it is not higher than 38ºC). In addition, unlike a viral disease, a bacterial disease is characterized by localized manifestations (sinusitis, otitis media...). There are no allergic manifestations.

Treatment

Usually, antibiotics are prescribed.

General properties of bacteria

Bacteria belong to the region Prokaryotae. Their cells do not have a nucleus or nuclear membrane. What is important is the classification of bacteria. Its purpose is to organize bacteria into groups (taxa). The basic taxonomic unit is the species. Species are a collection of bacterial strains that share consistent characteristics and are significantly different from other strains (groups). A bacterial strain is a population resulting from a single microbial cell.

Size and shape of bacteria

The size of bacteria ranges from micron to micrometer - observed at maximum magnification optical microscope. Most pathological bacteria have a size of 1-3 nm, however, their size is also affected by the quality of the nutrient soil.

Spherical shape (so-called cocci) - if they form colonies, they are further divided into diplococci (colonies consisting of two cells), tetracocci (four cells per colony), streptococci (chain colony), staphylococci (racemose colonies) and sarcina (cubic colonies).

Rod form (rods or bacilli) - these bacteria can gather in colonies of two (diplobacillus) or in chains (streptobacilli), and also form palisades.

Curved shape – Bacteria formed this way do not form colonies, and include vibrios (short, slightly curved rods), spirilla (slightly wavy stripes) or spirochetes (helical rods).

Fibrous form – filamentous colonies.

Branched form - creating either signs of branches or full branches. The second group can create bacterial mycelia.

Bacterial spores

Some types of G+ soil bacteria respond to certain changes in the environment (e.g. dryness, loss of nutrients) sporulation. The medicinally important genera are Bacillus and Clostridium. The shape, size and storage of spores have important to identify spore-forming bacteria. For cell sporulation, the presence of calcium and magnesium ions is important. Once the spores are created, the parent cell disintegrates and the spores are released into environment. If they find themselves in favorable conditions, they germinate and create a full-fledged plant cell. The spores are very resistant to temperature, UV radiation, drying, and disinfectants (for example, formaldehyde and some iodine preparations are sporicidal).

Main characteristics of viruses

Viruses are found somewhere on the border between living and non-living organisms. They contain only one type of nucleic acid, DNA or RNA. Their multiplication is accomplished in such a way that the host cell treats the viral genetic information as if it were its own. Viruses do not reproduce on their own; they are replicated by host cells. Therefore, basically, viruses spread (copy) only in living cells. To cultivate them in the laboratory, it is necessary to have a living cell culture. Viruses contain no enzymes, or only a few enzymes, necessary to enter and initiate activity in infected cells.

A virion is a viral particle. The nucleocapsid is the nucleus. We are talking, in fact, about nucleic acid and capsid, which makes up the viral “storage”. The viral envelope is usually formed by proteins and lipoproteins.

Size and shape of viruses

The smallest viruses include picornaviruses with sizes of 20-30 nm. On the other hand, the largest ones include poxviruses and the herpes virus. Viruses can only be observed in an electron microscope, where they look like crystals. They are divided by capsid type and NK type. For example, adenoviruses and parvoviruses have cubic capsids. The cubic capsid in the shell has a cytomegalovirus. There are also uncoated viruses, such as poxviruses.

Separation of viruses by NK type

Enveloped RNA viruses – retroviruses, coronaviruses, paramyxoviruses.

Non-enveloped RNA viruses are picornaviruses.

Enveloped DNA viruses are herpesviruses.

Non-enveloped DNA viruses - adenoviruses, parvoviruses, poxviruses, parvoviruses.

The most important viral diseases in humans

Viruses cause big number serious infectious diseases. For some of these diseases there is effective vaccine, against some, drugs have been developed that specifically block the viral enzyme.

Viral diseases are not affected by antibiotic treatment in the slightest. Excessive use of antibiotics, on the contrary, has a positive effect on the creation of resistant viral strains.

The most common illness is the common cold caused by rhinoviruses, coronaviruses or influenza viruses.

The most common diseases include:

1. Influenza (flu virus).
2. Colds, fever, catarrh or inflammation of the upper respiratory tract (rhinoviruses, coronaviruses).
3. Herpes (herpes virus).
4. Rubella (rubella virus).
5. Measles.
6. Poliomyelitis (poliomyelitis).
7. Parotitis.
8. Viral hepatitis - “jaundice” (hepatitis virus A, B, C, D, E, F, G and H - we are talking about various viruses that affect the liver, the most common are types A, B and C, of ​​which types B and C can cause liver cancer).
9. Human papillomavirus infection (warts, some genotypes are also the cause of cervical cancer).
10. Rabies (rabies virus, if antiserum is not submitted on time, is 100% fatal).
11. AIDS (HIV, human immunodeficiency virus).
12. Smallpox (smallpox virus).
13. Chickenpox (herpes viruses, type 3 causes shingles).
14. Fever, Infectious mononucleosis (Epstein-Barr virus, cytomegalovirus).
15. Hemorrhagic fever(Ebola, Marburg and others).
16. Encephalitis.
17. Atypical pneumonia.
18. Gastroenteritis.
19. Chlamydia.

Conclusion

As can be seen from the information offered above, there are significant differences between a bacterium and a virus, respectively, between a bacterial and a viral infection. They lie not only in the nature of the disease, its course and accompanying individual symptoms or groups of symptoms, but also in therapeutic methods.

Anatomical and physiological differences between microorganisms require a different approach to the treatment of diseases caused by them. Correct definition source of infection is important for appropriate treatment.

More rare, but at the same time, dangerous are diseases caused by bacteria. They more often cause severe, often lifelong health complications. Therefore, determining the type of disease should be entrusted to a specialist who will not only identify the cause of the disease, but also prescribe the optimal suitable method treatment.

Remember that self-medication is unacceptable for an ignorant person!

There is no need to say that most infectious diseases are extremely severe. Moreover, viral infections are the most difficult to treat. And this despite the fact that the arsenal antimicrobial agents is replenished with more and more new funds. But, despite the achievements of modern pharmacology, true antiviral drugs have not yet been obtained. The difficulties lie in the structural features of viral particles.

These representatives of the vast and diverse kingdom of microorganisms are often mistakenly confused with each other. Meanwhile, bacteria and viruses are fundamentally different from each other. And in the same way, bacterial and viral infections differ from each other, as well as the principles of treating these infections. Although in fairness it is worth noting that at the dawn of the development of microbiology, when the “guilt” of microorganisms in the occurrence of many diseases was proven, all these microorganisms were called viruses. Literally translated from Latin, virus means I. Then, as scientific research progressed, bacteria and viruses were isolated as separate independent forms of microorganisms.

The main feature that distinguishes bacteria from viruses is cellular structure. Bacteria are essentially single-celled organisms, while viruses have a non-cellular structure. Let us recall that a cell has a cell membrane with cytoplasm located inside (the main substance), a nucleus and organelles - specific intracellular structures that perform various functions on the synthesis, storage and isolation of certain substances. The nucleus contains DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) in the form of paired spirally twisted strands (chromosomes), in which genetic information is encoded. Based on DNA, RNA (ribonucleic acid) is synthesized, which, in turn, serves as a kind of matrix for the formation of protein. Thus, with the help of nucleic acids, DNA and RNA, hereditary information is transmitted and protein compounds are synthesized. And these compounds are strictly specific to each type of plant or animal.

True, some single-celled organisms, the most ancient in evolutionary terms, may not have a nucleus, the function of which is performed by a nucleus-like structure - the nucleoid. Such non-nucleated unicellular organisms are called prokaryota. It has been established that many types of bacteria are prokaryotes. And some bacteria can exist without a membrane - the so-called. L-shape. In general, bacteria are represented by many types, between which there are transitional forms. By appearance There are bacteria-rods (or bacilli), curved (vibrios), spherical (cocci). Clusters of cocci may look like a chain (streptococcus) or a bunch of grapes (staphylococcus). Bacteria grow well on carbohydrates and proteins nutrient media in vitro (in a test tube). And with the correct method of seeding and fixation with certain dyes, they are clearly visible under a microscope.

Viruses

They are not cells, and unlike bacteria, their structure is quite primitive. Although, perhaps, this primitiveness determines virulence - the ability of viruses to penetrate tissue cells and cause pathological changes in them. And the size of the virus is negligible - hundreds of times smaller than bacteria. Therefore, it can only be seen using an electron microscope. Structurally, the virus is 1 or 2 molecules of DNA or RNA. On this basis, viruses are divided into DNA-containing and RNA-containing. As can be seen from this, a viral particle (virion) can easily do without DNA. A DNA or RNA molecule is surrounded by a capsid, a protein shell. This is the entire structure of the virion.

When approaching a cell, viruses attach to its shell, destroying it. Then, through the resulting envelope defect, the virion injects a strand of DNA or RNA into the cell cytoplasm. That's all. After this, viral DNA begins to reproduce many times inside the cell. And each new viral DNA is, in fact, new virus. After all, the protein inside the cell is synthesized not by the cell, but by the virus. When a cell dies, many virions emerge from it. Each of them, in turn, searches for a host cell. And so on, in geometric progression.

Viruses are present everywhere and everywhere, in places with any climate. There is not a single species of plant or animal that is not susceptible to their invasion. It is believed that viruses were the very first life forms. And if life on Earth ends, then the very last elements of life will also be viruses. It should be noted that each type of virus infects only a certain type of cell. This property is called tropism. For example, encephalitis viruses are tropic to brain tissue, HIV is tropic to the cells of the human immune system, and the hepatitis virus is tropic to liver cells.

Basic principles of treatment of bacterial and viral infections

All microorganisms, bacteria, and viruses are prone to mutation - changing their structure and genetic properties under the influence of external factors which can be heat, cold, humidity, chemical substances, ionizing radiation. Mutations are also caused by antimicrobial drugs. In this case, the mutated microbe becomes immune to the action of antimicrobial drugs. It is this factor that underlies resistance - the resistance of bacteria to the action of antibiotics.

The euphoria that took place several decades ago after penicillin was obtained from mold fungus. And penicillin itself has long since retired, passing the baton to infection control others, younger and strong antibiotics. The effect of antibiotics on bacterial cells can be different. Some drugs destroy the bacterial membrane, others inhibit the synthesis of microbial DNA and RNA, and others uncouple the course of complex enzymatic reactions in the bacterial cell. In this regard, antibiotics can have a bactericidal (destroy bacteria) or bacteriostatic (inhibit their growth and suppress reproduction) effect. Of course, the bactericidal effect is more effective than the bacteriostatic one.

What about viruses? On them, as on non-cellular structures, Antibiotics don't work at all!

Then why are antibiotics prescribed for ARVI?

Maybe these are illiterate doctors?

No, the point here is not at all about the professionalism of doctors. The bottom line is that almost any viral infection depletes and suppresses the immune system. As a result, the body becomes susceptible not only to bacteria, but also to viruses. Antibiotics are prescribed as preventive measure against bacterial infection, which often occurs as a complication of ARVI.

It is noteworthy that viruses mutate much faster than bacteria. This may be due to the fact that there are no true antiviral drugs that can destroy viruses.

But what about Interferon, Acyclovir, Remantadine, and other antiviral drugs? Many of these drugs activate the immune system, and thereby prevent the intracellular penetration of the virion and contribute to its destruction. But a virus that has penetrated a cell is invincible. This in to a large extent is due to the persistence (hidden asymptomatic course) of many viral infections.

An example is herpes, or more precisely, one of its types, herpes labialis - labial herpes. The fact is that external manifestations in the form of bubbles on the lips - this is just the tip of the iceberg. In fact, the herpes virus (a distant relative of the smallpox virus) is located in the brain tissue, and penetrates the mucous membrane of the lips through nerve endings in the presence of provoking factors - mainly hypothermia. The above-mentioned Acyclovir is able to eliminate only the external manifestations of herpes. But the virus itself, once “buried” in the brain tissue, remains there until the end of a person’s life. A similar mechanism is observed in some viral hepatitis and HIV. This is the reason for the difficulties in obtaining medicines for full treatment these diseases.

But there must be a cure; viral diseases cannot be invincible. After all, humanity was able to overcome the threat of the Middle Ages - smallpox.

Without a doubt, such a cure will be obtained. More precisely, it already exists. His name is human immunity.

Only ours the immune system capable of curbing the virus. According to clinical observations, the severity of HIV infection has noticeably decreased over 30 years. And if this continues, then in a few decades the frequency of transition of HIV infection to AIDS and subsequent mortality will be high, but not 100%. And then this infection will probably be something like an ordinary, quickly passing disease. But then, most likely, a new one will appear dangerous virus, like today's Ebola virus. After all, the struggle between Man and the Virus, as between the macrocosm and the microcosm, will continue as long as Life exists.

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Unfortunately, not many people know the differences between these concepts, which leads to improper treatment, and this can have serious and dangerous consequences. There is a huge difference between treatment and... We have previously published articles - and we also recommend reading them!

So what is the difference between a virus and an infection? Let’s look at it in detail below!

A virus is a very simple form of life that straddles the line between organic and inorganic nature. In fact, this is genetic material, i.e. DNA (Deoxyribonucleic acid) and RNA (Ribonucleic acid) in a protein shell that serves as protection. Without host cells, the virus cannot reproduce. In addition, they do not have their own metabolism, which means they cannot eat.

How does the virus become infected?

At the first stage, the protective shell of the virus is attached to the membrane of another cell.

Most viruses can only attach to a certain type organisms. Infection occurs when a virus transfers its RNA and DNA (genetic material) into a second cell (host cell). There it begins to develop rapidly using certain internal systems host cell. Creates protein particles.

After it is created sufficient quantity particles, new viruses are assembled from nucleic acids and produced proteins. And then, it destroys the host cell and is released. The released particle tends to infect new cell. This process is repeated over and over again, each time destroying the host cells. This causes progression of the disease and release of external environment viruses, infecting new people or animals.

Unlike viruses, bacteria are full-fledged cells that have the necessary organelles for the synthesis of substances and energy production. These cells can multiply. The genetic material is contained in the cytoplasm, i.e. intracellular fluid. This is caused by the absence of a nucleus, where genetic material is stored, in most types of cells.

How do bacterial diseases develop?

As mentioned earlier, bacteria are full-fledged cells capable of reproducing without the help of the host organism, most often this occurs by division. They have their own metabolism, and therefore can feed themselves. It is as food that bacteria usually use the host. The organism into which bacteria have penetrated is perceived by them as a comfortable environment for reproduction. In the process of their life activity, they damage the host cells and poison them with waste products (toxins). This leads to the development of the disease.

The treatment of viral and bacterial diseases differs significantly precisely because of their different nature.

Antibacterial drugs are aimed at destroying bacteria, as well as blocking the ability to reproduce.

Drugs against viruses

Antiviral drugs have three directions of action:

• Stimulation of the defense mechanisms of the host organism itself to counteract viruses that have entered the body;
• Violation of the structure of viral particles. Typically these drugs are analogues of nitrogenous bases. This substance acts as a material for the synthesis of nucleic acids, from which RNA and DNA are built. The altered substances are incorporated into the genetic material of the virus, which leads to deformation of the created viruses. Due to their own defect, these particles cannot reproduce and generate new particles;
• Preventing the virus from entering the host cell. Thus, the viral DNA and RNA cannot detach from the protective protein coat, and they cannot penetrate the cell membrane.

Encephalitis is caused by viruses, and borelliosis is caused by the activity of bacteria, which leads to various treatments these diseases.

The drug Yodantipirin acts in the third direction. It prevents encephalitis from penetrating into the cell it protects.

If the virus has entered the body and infects it, the drug blocks the further development of the disease. It is recommended to use this Yodantipirin before visiting places where there is a risk of contracting encephalitis, i.e. places of residence of ticks (forests, parks, meadows, etc.).

Immunoglobulin

Immunoglobulen is a rather specific drug that is aimed at neutralizing all types of bacteria and viruses. It produces the body’s own and individual types of immunoglobulins. This drug belongs to the category of immunobiological drugs. This remedy should not be used in emergency cases, as it may cause acute allergic reaction and lead to very serious consequences. Before use, you need to consult with a specialist who will prescribe a specific regimen for taking the drug.

Immunoglobulen and Yodantipyrin are absolutely different drugs who have great friend protection mechanisms and tasks from each other. IN in case of emergency, you should take Yodantipyrine, which blocks the disease at initial stage, and Immunoglobulin stimulates the body to produce certain antibodies that can destroy encephalitis. The drugs have contraindications and you need to read the instructions, and in the case of Immunoglobulen, consult a doctor. More detailed information about the effect of the drug and the results of clinical trials can be found in specialized literature and in medical reference books.

Video: How to distinguish a viral disease from a bacterial one