Mr. Seemy’s students are studying familiar diseases in science class. “Some diseases are caused by bacteria, such as strep throat, tuberculosis, and food poisoning,” says Mr. Seemy. “However, diseases such as the common cold and chickenpox are caused by viruses, which are even smaller than bacteria.”

“I had a cold for two weeks and my doctor wouldn’t write me a prescription for antibiotics,” says Arjun. “She told me the cold was caused by a virus, and antibiotics wouldn’t work on it. She said I just needed to rest and drink a lot of fluids. It was so annoying!”

“Many people assume that antibiotics can kill viruses, but they can’t,” says Mr. Seemy. “Antibiotics are only effective on bacterial infections. Your doctor was right, even if you didn’t like it. You may see advertisements for a certain drug on TV or hear stories about people using a particular drug to get better, but that doesn’t necessarily mean it will be helpful in your situation.”

“I know what Arjun means, though,” says Tanisha. “When I’m sick all I want is to get better. But my uncle’s a doctor, and he says relying too much on antibiotics has the potential to create even stronger types of bacteria.”

“Well, I know that bacteria and viruses aren’t the same thing,” says Arjun, “but really, how are they different?”

“Let’s look at some information and see if you can sort different germs into the right categories,” says Mr. Seemy.

The class goes over the following information on bacteria and viruses:

Now imagine you are a doctor. First, determine if each germ below is a bacteria or a virus. Then, decide if you will prescribe antibiotics to fight each germ.

Which of the three germs above are treatable with antibiotics? How do you know?

Discussion Question:

Suppose a patient who had the flu asked you to prescribe an antibiotic he had seen advertised. Explain to your patient whether or not antibiotics could help him, and why.