Bacteria are micro-organisms that, unlike viruses, can exist on their own. Viruses, on the other hand, can only exist inside a living cell. Most bacteria are not harmful to people, and some are actually beneficial. Bowel bacteria support bowel health. However if they get into the urinary system, they can cause an infection there. Doctors prescribe antibiotics for illnesses where bacteria need to be stopped or killed off. Immunisation is also possible against some bacterial infections, such as diphtheria, tetanus or whooping cough.
