What is a viral infection?
When a virus gets into your body, it can
make more viruses and cause a viral infection. Your body's immune system
must destroy the viruses and stop more from being formed. Children
under 2 years can have more trouble fighting viruses because their
immune system is still developing and may not be as strong as an individual 3 years or older.
The most common viral infection is the common cold. Some other viral illnesses in include:
- Bronchiolitis and viral pneumonia
- Roseola
- Warts
- Chickenpox
- Measles
- Mumps
- Viral diarrhea (rotavirus)
- Adenovirus
- Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)
- Polio
What is the cause?
Viruses are spread by contact with
infected fluids or secretions. They can be on surfaces such as
tables, doorknobs, or telephones. A common way to "catch" a virus is to
touch an infected person or item and then rub your eyes or nose. Viruses
can also enter the body through food, drinks, insect or animal
bites. Viruses may be in the air we breathe in after someone
coughs or sneezes.
What are the symptoms?
The symptoms caused by a virus depend on
what kind of virus it is and where the virus is in the body. Some
viruses cause a sore throat, cough, runny nose, headache, muscle aches,
or fever. Some cause rashes. Others cause nausea, cramping, or diarrhea.
How is it diagnosed?
Your healthcare provider will ask
about your symptoms and medical history and examine you.
You may have blood tests to help find the cause of an illness.
It’s important to find out if an infection is caused by a virus or by
bacteria.
How is it treated?
People with viral infections usually get
better without treatment. Bacterial infections may need to be treated
with antibiotics. Antibiotics have no effect on viruses. There are some
antiviral medicines, but they are used for specific types of viral
infections.
How can I take care of myself?
If you have a viral infection, make sure you:
- Gets plenty of rest
- Drinks lots of fluids
How can I help prevent a viral infection?
Hand washing, especially after going to the
bathroom, is the most effective way to prevent the spread of viral infections. You may use hand sanitizer. Avoid sharing eating utensils, towels, and handkerchiefs. Use a tissue when you sneeze or cough and throw
tissues away right after using them.
A
healthy diet and plenty of exercise and rest will help you
fight off viral infections.
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