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Virus or bacteria?
The flu (influenza) and colds (upper respiratory infections) are caused by viruses for which there is no special treatment.
On the other hand, bacterial infections such as strep throat or an ear infection can be treated with antibiotics prescribed by a physician.
These general guidelines can help you determine if you have a viral or bacterial infection:
| Symptom | Virus | Bacteria |
| runny nose | often | rare |
| achy muscles | usual | rare |
| headache | often | rare |
| dizzy | often | rare |
| fever | often | often |
| cough | often | sometimes |
| dry cough | often | rare |
| raising sputum | often | often |
| hoarseness | often | rare |
| Do antibiotic prescriptions help? | no | yes |
Related Links
How to prevent infections during your hospital stay
Infectious disease specialists
Source: Allina Medical Clinic
First published: 12/11/2003
Last updated: 10/26/2006
Reviewed by: Paul Kleeberg, MD, medical director, Allina.com