BACTERIA and viruses can cause many common infections but what are the differences between the two kinds of infectious organisms.

Bacteria are tiny single cell micro-organisms and can live in almost every conceivable environment, including in or on the human body. They are very diverse and have a large variety of shapes and structural features  However only a handful of bacteria cause infections in humans and are referred to as pathogenic bacteria.

Many bacterial infections are contagious and can be transmitted from person to person so it is advisable to keep away from contaminated surfaces and human contact and contaminated food and water.

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Viruses are another type of tiny micro-organisms, they are smaller than bacteria and can also be in various shapes. However, because viruses are parasitic which means that they require living cells or tissue in which to grow. Unfortunately, viruses can invade your body and uses the components of your cells to grow and multiply. Some viruses even kill host cells as part of their life cycle.

Like bacterial infections, many viral infections are also contagious and can be transmitted from person to person in many of the same ways.

A cold can cause, sore throat, a stuffy or runny nose and low fever, but is it bacterial or viral? The common cold is caused by a number of different viruses with rhinoviruses the most common. Sometimes a secondary bacterial infection may develop which may give rise to sinus or ear infections or even pneumonia so if in doubt consult your pharmacist or GP.

Finally, as we are hopefully returning to a degree of normality let us still exercise caution when coming out of shielding and stay safe.