Bacteria and Viruses have plenty of things in common. Both are caused by tiny microbes, and both are spread by sneezing, coughing, contact with infected people and animals, infected surfaces, infected water, infected food, and so on. Microbes, their common nominator can be the cause for either an acute infection (typically short-lived), latent infection (symptoms may appear after a while), or a chronic one (can last weeks, months, or even a lifetime). But what matters the most is that bacteria and virus infections can lead to mild, moderate, or severe disease.
The differences between Bacteria and Viruses
Even though they share some common features, bacteria and viruses have plenty of differences.
· Bacteria
Bacteria are single-celled organisms featuring a rubbery membrane that encapsulates its fluid and a rigid wall. These relatively complex organisms can reproduce on their own and can survive in various conditions and environments. Some fossilized bacteria are thought to be 3.4 billion years old. Almost 99% of all bacteria are either harmless of brings some benefit to the human organism. Only 1% of all bacteria can bring diseases to people.
· Viruses
Viruses are smaller than bacteria. They are made of a protein coat and