AEMCA Practice Exam

What type of infections cannot be treated with antibiotics?

1. Bacterial infections

2. Viral infections

3. Fungal infections

4. Parasitic infections

The correct answer is: Viral infections

Viral infections cannot be treated with antibiotics because antibiotics are specifically designed to target bacteria, inhibiting their growth or killing them. Viruses have a fundamentally different structure and replication process compared to bacteria, which makes antibiotic treatments ineffective. For example, common viral infections such as the flu, common cold, and COVID-19 cannot be treated with antibiotics; instead, they may require antiviral medications or supportive care. While bacterial infections effectively respond to antibiotics, fungal infections may need antifungal medications, and parasitic infections often require antiparasitic drugs. Each type of infection requires a unique treatment approach based on its specific characteristics, highlighting the importance of understanding the nature of the infecting organism when determining the appropriate therapy.