Parent Guide: Not all Bugs are Created Equal

Both viruses and bacteria cause infections, but antibiotics only work against bacteria.

Viral Infections

• Include colds, flu, croup, laryngitis, chest colds (bronchitis) and most sore throats
• Are more contagious than bacterial infections (If more than one person in the family has the same illness, odds are it is a viral infection.)
• Can make you just as sick as bacterial infections
• Usually get better in 4-5 days but it might take as long as three weeks to fully recover

Antibiotics do not work against viruses

Bacterial Infections

• Are less common than viral infections
• Do not spread as easily from one person to another as viral infections
• Cause infections such as pneumonia and strep throat

Antibiotics do work against most bacteria