How Are Bacteria Different from Viruses? – Differences Between Virus And Bacteria
Some major differences between virus and bacteria are given below:
Features |
Virus |
Bacteria |
---|---|---|
Cellular Structure |
Non-cellular |
Cellular |
Composition |
Genetic material (DNA or RNA) |
Genetic material (DNA) |
Cell Wall |
Absent |
Present in many |
Cellular Organization |
Lack cellular organelles |
Have cellular organelles |
Metabolism |
Depend on host cell for replication |
Independent metabolism |
Living or Non-living |
Considered non-living |
Considered living |
Size |
Smaller |
Larger |
Reproduction |
Replicate only inside host cells |
Can reproduce independently |
Mode of Reproduction |
Replication using host machinery |
Binary fission |
Diseases |
Cause various diseases in hosts |
Some species cause diseases |
Symptoms |
Can cause a variety of symptoms, such as fever, pus formation, localized pain. |
Often associated with systemic symptoms like fever, fatigue, and specific organ-related symptoms. |
Spread |
Can spread through air, water, direct contact, or contaminated surfaces. |
Typically spread through respiratory droplets, blood, or bodily fluids. |
Duration of Illness |
Symptoms may persist until treated with antibiotics. |
May resolve on their own or require antiviral treatment, duration varies. |
Treatment |
Antiviral medications |
Antibiotics |
Examples |
Influenza virus, HIV, SARS-CoV-2 |
Escherichia coli, Streptococcus |
Difference Between Virus And Bacteria
The major difference between viruses and bacteria is that viruses are non-living entities composed of genetic material, while bacteria are living single-celled organisms with distinct cellular structures. Viruses and bacteria are microscopic organisms that can cause disease.
Understanding the difference between viruses and bacteria helps students to learn about these microorganisms in detail. In this article, we will talk about how are bacteria different from viruses and discuss some of the major differences between them.
Table of Content
- What is Bacteria?
- Characteristics of Bacteria
- What is Virus?
- Characteristics of Virus
- How Are Bacteria Different from Viruses? – Differences Between Virus And Bacteria
- Conclusion – Difference Between Virus And Bacteria
- Other Related Difference Article Links
- FAQs – Difference Between Virus And Bacteria
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