In these days of corona, we suddenly dwell much more on what is actually the difference between a virus and a bacterium. We are required to wash or disinfect our hands frequently, but isn't this something that only kills bacteria? In this article, we explain why it is important anyway by naming the difference, but also the similarity, between viruses and bacteria. Finally, we briefly explain the principle of a vaccine.
How does a virus work?
A virus enters us through bodily fluids (e.g. blood and saliva) and then settles in an existing cell in the body. The moment the virus is inside a cell, it takes control of that cell and can start multiplying. When this happens, you can get sick. Well-known diseases caused by a virus are flu, colds, Pfeiffer's disease and COVID-19. A viral infection cannot be remedied with antibiotics because they only work against bacteria.
How does a bacterium work?
A bacterium is a single-celled organism and can divide and spread very quickly. There are millions of bacteria throughout our bodies. There is a difference between good bacteria and bad bacteria. Bacilli found in the intestinal flora do a good job of digesting food. The bacteria in the skin ensure their good condition. Bad bacteria cause you to get sick. Your immune system tries to destroy the pathogenic bacteria through white blood cells. When this fails, a course of antibiotics may be a solution.
What is the difference between a bacterium and a virus?
The main difference between is that a bacterium is a single-celled micro-organism. It is a living cell, something that is not true of a virus. This is because a virus is not an organism, nor does it have any cells of its own. It is a tiny particle with hereditary material, surrounded by a so-called protein shell.
Defence and treatment of viruses and bacteria
There is a very important difference at the time of treatment. In principle, an infection by a bacterium can be treated. If necessary, a doctor prescribes an antibiotic that kills the bacteria. Against a virus, however, there are no drugs. The most important weapon against viruses is your resistance. A good resistance can conquer many diseases. Do you fall ill anyway? Then a good resistance ensures that you get better quickly.
We have written an article on how to increase your resistance. Read more here: https://www.friskfysio.nl/2020/03/26/weerstand-corona-friskfysio/
Why wash your hands anyway?
During this time, it is extra important to wash your hands. Suppose you have coronavirus. The virus is in your lungs. If you hold your hand in front of your mouth when you sneeze or cough, the virus gets on your hands. Now suppose you shake hands with someone, the virus is now on his/her hand. The virus does not pass through the skin, but if that person touches the face, it can get inside. By washing your hands, you might get it off. Besides, we are asked to sneeze into our elbow so that it does not get on our hand.
The principle of a vaccine
The body's resistance to a virus can be increased by administering a virus rendered harmless before an infection. In this way, your immune system is stimulated to have already prepared a good defence. If you were then to contract the virus, your immune system ensures that the virus has much less chance.
