When you go to see a doctor or talk to friends when you have a cold or flu, you hear certain words, right? Influenza, virus, bacteria, antibiotics... When you hear words like these, sometimes you have a little problem in your mind, "What does this mean?" Don't be afraid. Today we will talk about this very simply, in a way that you can understand. After reading this, you will have a good understanding of these words.
First, let's get to know these two 'enemies': viruses and bacteria.
This is where many people get confused. Viruses and bacteria are two different things.
What is a virus?
Simply put, a virus is a tiny living particle that is invisible to the naked eye. But it cannot live or spread on its own. It needs a cell in our body to do that. When a virus enters our body, it goes directly into one of our cells, takes control of that cell, and makes thousands of copies of itself. It's like 'hijacking' our cells.
Influenza , or the flu as we all know it, is caused by this type of virus. And another type of virus causes the common cold.
So what is bacteria?
Bacteria are also microorganisms that are invisible to the naked eye. But unlike viruses, bacteria are complete cells that can live on their own, divide, and multiply. Bacteria are everywhere in our bodies and in the environment. Some of these are good bacteria that help us. For example, bacteria in our intestines that help us digest food. But some types of bad bacteria can cause infections and make us sick when they enter our bodies. For example, bacterial infections in the throat, urinary tract infections, etc.
Two types of medicine: Antibiotics and Antivirals
Just as the two enemies are different, the types of medicine given to them are completely different.
- Antibiotics: These medications are only designed to kill bacteria or stop them from growing. This means that if you have a viral infection like the flu, antibiotics won't help. This is where many people make a mistake.
- Antiviral agents: These medications are designed to fight viral infections. Drugs like oseltamivir (Tamiflu), which is used to treat influenza, fall into this category. These medications are most effective when taken within the first two days of flu symptoms. That's why it's important to see a doctor as soon as you have a fever.
We also need to be aware of the dangerous condition called antibiotic resistance . This means that when we use antibiotics unnecessarily, the bad bacteria in our bodies gradually become accustomed to the medicine. Over time, when a bacterial infection actually occurs, the medicine does not kill the bacteria. This is a major health problem. Therefore, never use antibiotics without a doctor's prescription.
Our body's defense system: Immunity and Vaccines
When germs that cause disease enter our bodies, we have our own army to fight them.
- Immune system: This is the 'army' in our body. This system is made up of specialized cells and organs. The job of this system is to recognize and destroy foreign invaders, such as viruses and bacteria, and protect us from disease.
- Immunity: This is the process by which our body becomes protected from a disease by fighting it off and preventing it from coming back. It's like an army that has won a battle and is ready to recognize the enemy if it comes back.
- Immunization / Vaccine: A vaccine is something that trains our immune system against a disease. A vaccine contains a killed or weakened part of the germ that causes the disease. When it is given to the body, our immune system learns to recognize this weakened enemy and fight it. Then, if the real, stronger germ ever comes into our body, our army is ready to fight. There is also an annual flu vaccine. There are some shots that are injected, as well as nasal sprays.
Other illnesses that come with fever (Related Illnesses)
When you get a viral infection like influenza, it can sometimes lead to other complications. Here are a few of them.
| Name of Illness | Affected area | Common features |
|---|---|---|
| Bronchitis | Infection/inflammation of the main airways that carry air to the lungs. | Cough, phlegm, runny nose. |
| Pneumonia | An infection that affects the lungs themselves. | High fever, chills, chest pain, and difficulty breathing. |
| Sinusitis | Infection/inflammation of the air cavities (sinuses) around the nose. | Facial pain, stuffy nose, fever. |
Two things to be especially careful about:
You should definitely know about these two words.
Reye's syndrome
This is a rare, but very dangerous , life-threatening condition. This can occur, especially in children and young people, if they are given aspirin-containing medicines during a viral infection (e.g. influenza, chickenpox). This can cause brain and liver damage. Therefore, never give aspirin to a child with a viral fever without consulting a doctor. If you have any doubts about a medicine, consult your doctor immediately. If necessary, you can also call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital for advice.
The misconception about "Stomach Flu"
Often, when we experience stomach upset, vomiting, or diarrhea, we say it's a "stomach flu." But this is a completely wrong idea. This condition has nothing to do with the influenza (flu) virus. Stomach upset is caused by other viruses or bacteria. So remember that "stomach flu" is not influenza.
Take-Home Message
- Influenza (Flu) is a viral disease. Antibiotics do not cure it.
- Using antibiotics without medical advice can harm the body.
- Antiviral medications only work in the early stages of the disease, so seek medical advice as soon as symptoms appear.
- The best way to protect yourself from flu is to get the appropriate vaccines.
- Avoid giving aspirin to a child with a viral fever without consulting a doctor.
- For any illness, always see your doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.
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