Dear Adlanders:

I was resently diagnosed with a viral infection, which was later determined to be a bacterial infection. I was told I had contracted this from being in the hospital for 5 hours to have a liver biopsy. While in the recovery room,  and during the second hour there, I began to cough and sneeze. Upon arriving home, and as the day progressed, my symptoms became much worse. From Monday until now, these symptoms gravitated to no appetite, sleeplessness, burning sensation in my lungs, and one horrible headache that I would not have wished on my worst enemy. Yesterday, I was requested to visit with my family care physician and after our consultation, I asked about the difference between viral infections and bacterial infections; most of us do not understand that these are two extremely different conditions.

Here is an overview of what was shared, along  with my own personal research:

" Viral infections are common among people of all ages but often seem to be concentrated in infants and children. Most childhood viral infections are not serious and include such diverse illnesses as colds with a sore throat, vomiting and diarrhea, and fever with a rash. Some viral illnesses that cause more serious disease, such as measles, are less common now due to widespread immunization. Most children with viral infections get better without treatment, and many viral infections are so distinctive that a doctor can diagnose them based on their symptoms. A doctor usually does not need to have a laboratory identify the specific virus involved. "

Moreover, " a virus is a small infectious organism—much smaller than a fungus or bacterium—that must invade a living cell to reproduce (replicate). The virus attaches to a cell (called the host cell), enters it, and releases its DNA or RNA inside the cell. The virus's DNA or RNA is the genetic material containing the information needed to replicate the virus. The virus's genetic material takes control of the cell and forces it to replicate the virus. The infected cell usually dies because the virus keeps it from performing its normal functions. When it dies, the cell releases new viruses, which go on to infect other cells. "

Accordingly, " many viral infections result in fever and body aches or discomfort. Doctors treat these symptoms with TYLENOL. Aspirin is not given to children or adolescents with these symptoms, because it increases the risk of Reye's syndrome in those who have certain viral infections. Generally, parents can discern whether their child is ill with a potentially serious infection and needs immediate medical care. This is particularly true for children beyond infancy."

As I am an adult ( something my family will tell you is questionable ) the doctor prescribed another brand of medication - Azithromycin , which is the generic name for Zithromax, an antibiotic that fights bacteria in the body. Zithromax is used to treat many different types of infections caused by bacteria, such as respiratory infections, skin infections, ear infections,  etc.

" Azithromycin is also used to treat certain infections caused by bacteria, such as bronchitis and pneumonia. Azithromycin is in a class of medications called macrolide antibiotics. It works by stopping the growth of bacteria. Antibiotics will not work for colds, flu, or other viral infections; the vast majority of bacteria are harmless or beneficial. The most common bacterial disease is tuberculosis, which kills about 2 million people a year, mostly in sub-Saharan Africa. this bacteria contributes to other global diseases, such as pneumonia. "

To continue, one thing we all need to understand is that over time, we can become complacent within our responsibility to maintain and protect our health. We need to remember to wash our hands both before and after we use the rest room ( it's true folks - before and after ). We also need to keep in mind that we should not eat food from other peoples plates, or " take a bite " from food that our kids have been eating. It is a fallacy that simply because the child is related to you and has your DNA , etc., you can not get sick. " Viral infections are transmitted by inhaling, and drinking and eating from others plates or using their utentials. " Stay alert and make sure you keep all areas where food is stored or prepared clean and free from dirty dishes, pots , pans etc.

Today, it would seem that the Azithromycin prescribed is working. I had a good nights rest, I'm a tad bit better, and expect to be back to my old self within no time at all... ( which could be dangerous for some people who know me :) )

To close, I hope this was helpful and that you will have an excellent day, stay well,  and you will take time to smile at the children; they need your reassurance that we are moving toward a world that will one day become safe and sane; one where they can grow and prosper as our Creator intended. 

All the best,

Joe Buccheri