12/19/2025
🦠 Virus vs 🧫 Bacteria — Know the Difference!
Not all infections are the same, and knowing the difference can protect your health 👇
🦠 Viruses
• Not living organisms
• Need a host cell to survive
• Cause flu, COVID-19, common cold
• ❌ Antibiotics do NOT work
🧫 Bacteria
• Living microorganisms
• Can survive on their own
• Some are helpful, some cause infections
• Cause strep throat, UTIs, gum disease
• ✅ Antibiotics CAN work (when prescribed)
⚠️ Important reminder:
Taking antibiotics for viral infections won’t help—and can lead to antibiotic resistance, making future infections harder to treat.
🛡️ Protect yourself:
✔ Wash your hands
✔ Stay up to date with vaccines
✔ Practice good oral hygiene
✔ See a doctor or dentist for proper diagnosis
💡 Healthy choices start with knowledge!