What are the main types of germs that cause infections?
Viruses and bacteria are the two main types of germs that cause infection. Antibiotics cannot kill viruses but can kill bacteria. Viral infections should not be treated with antibiotics. Viral illnesses include: • Common cold – stuffy nose, sore throat, sneezing, cough headache. • Influenza (flu) – fever, chills, body aches, headache, sore throat, dry cough. • Many coughs. • Acute bronchitis (cough, fever) – almost always caused by viruses. • Pharyngitis (sore throat) – most sore throats are caused by viruses and are not effectively treated with an antibiotic. • Viral gastroenteritis. Bacterial infections should be treated with antibiotics. Bacterial infections can include: • Ear infections – antibiotics are used for most, but not all ear infections. • Severe sinus infections – lasting two or more weeks. • Strep throat. • Urinary tract infection.
