May also be called: Virus A viral infection is an infection or disease caused by a virus (a type of germ). More to Know Infections can be caused by different germs, such as bacteria or viruses. Viral infections can cause many different symptoms, like fever, congestion, sore throat, cough, ear pain, vomiting, diarrhea, or rash. Sometimes the responsible virus is easily determined while other times this isn't possible. While both viral and bacterial infections can make someone feel sick, only infections caused by bacteria can be treated with antibiotics. Antibiotics won't help a viral infection get better or keep it from being contagious, and can sometimes cause unnecessary side effects. Keep in Mind Viral infections can be frustrating and uncomfortable. But with rest and supportive care (like staying hydrated), most people will feel better in a few days. All A to Z dictionary entries are regularly reviewed by KidsHealth medical experts. Back to Articles Related Articles Word! Virus Viruses are a type of germ. They're very tiny, and when they get inside your body, they can make you sick. Read More Flu Center Get the basics on how flu spreads and how to protect yourself. Read More Flu Center The flu can make you sick for a week or more. Find out how to get protected from the influenza virus. Read More Flu Center Learn all about protecting your family from the flu and what to do if your child gets flu-like symptoms. Read More First Aid: Common Cold Kids can get up to eight colds a year - or more. The common cold sends more kids to the doctor than any other illness. Read More Coping With Colds Most teens get between two and four colds each year. Read this article for the facts on colds and ways to feel better when you catch one. Read More Hand Washing: Why It's So Important Did you know that the most important thing you can do to keep from getting sick is to wash your hands? If you don't wash your hands frequently, you can pick up germs from other sources and then infect yourself. Read More Respiratory Syncytial Virus Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a major cause of respiratory illness in young children. Learn how to recognize the signs and symptoms of this contagious infection. Read More Germs: Bacteria, Viruses, Fungi, and Protozoa Germs are tiny organisms that can cause disease - and they're so small that they can creep into your system without you noticing. Find out how to protect yourself. Read More Hand Washing: Why It's So Important Washing your hands well and often is the best way to keep from getting sick. Here's how to teach this all-important habit to your kids. Read More Colds Colds are the most common infectious disease in the United States - and the top reason kids visit the doctor and miss school. Read More Your Immune System The immune system keeps you healthy. How does it work? Find out in this article for kids. Read More Note: All information is for educational purposes only. For specific medical advice, diagnoses, and treatment, consult your doctor. © 1995-2021 KidsHealth®. All rights reserved. Images provided by The Nemours Foundation, iStock, Getty Images, Veer, Shutterstock, and Clipart.com.