While bacterial infections and viral infections are extremely common, both come with their own particular set of mild and severe risks. To reduce your facility's risk of exposure, it's important to first understand the difference between a virus and bacteria. Use this guide from us to learn what viral and bacterial infections are, what risks they pose, and how you can limit your exposure to them.
VIRUS VS. BACTERIA
While viral infections and bacterial infections are both microbes, each causes diseases in different ways. Find out how to identify each to help you properly control them in your facility.
BACTERIAL INFECTIONS
Bacterial infections are single-celled microorganisms that can survive on their own. Some bacteria are harmless, while other types can cause illness. Luckily, many of the more serious bacterial infections a person can get can be treated with antibiotics. Bacterial infections are typically derived from the following causes:
Direct contact with infected individuals
Indirect contact by touching surfaces or breathing air in a space where bacterial infections are existing
Tainted food or beverages that lead to the bacterial infection E. coli
Transmission through sexual contact can lead to bacterial infections like chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis.
If you have a bacterial infection, it typically stays in one part of your body, like the ears or throat, until treatment is complete. Some of the most common bacterial infections include:
Strep throat
Urinary tract infections
Tuberculosis
VIRAL INFECTIONS
Viral infections are smaller than bacteria and require a living host to remain active. Like bacterial infections, some types of viral infections are harmless, while other strands can do serious damage. Viral infections are typically derived from the following causes:
Direct or indirect contact with someone who currently has a viral infection
Direct or indirect contact with bloodborne or airborne pathogens
Contact with surfaces that contain active viral cells
These infections are systemic, meaning they spread throughout the body. All types of viral infections are contagious. Some common viral infections include:
The common cold
Chickenpox
Shingles
AIDS
HOW TO REDUCE YOUR EXPOSURE TO VIRAL AND BACTERIAL INFECTIONS
Infection control in healthcare facilities is crucial to maintaining a healthy space for your employees and staff. In order to avoid exposure to both types of infections, follow these tips:
Always wear personal protective equipment (PPE) while providing care or cleaning a space where infection may be present.
Wash your hands before, during, and after caring for each patient.
Thoroughly clean, disinfect, and sterilize high-traffic areas and any spaces that may have been exposed to infections
We know how dangerous bacteria and viruses can be if left unchecked. Using the best practices and procedures set in place by OSHA and other leading industry organizations, our expert staff can deliver a deep clean in your facility.
Contact us today to see how you could benefit from our comprehensive decontamination and preventative cleaning services.
