Your Guide to Viral and Bacterial Infections in Delaware

As the chill of winter settles over Delaware, the season for sniffles, sore throats and fevers is in full swing. While some illnesses are mild and resolve on their own, others can escalate into more serious conditions. Knowing the difference between viral and bacterial infections is key to protecting your health and getting the right care when you need it. 

At Bayhealth Total Care, we’re here to help you navigate these seasonal challenges with confidence. 

Viral Infections 

Viral infections are caused by microscopic invaders that hijack healthy cells to reproduce. In Delaware, common culprits include the flu, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and the ever-present common cold. These illnesses thrive in crowded spaces like schools, offices and public venues, making prevention a community effort. 

Symptoms of viral infections often start with a runny nose, sore throat, fatigue and a mild fever. While these illnesses are usually self-limiting and clear up within 10 to 14 days, they can sometimes linger or worsen. Severe symptoms, such as difficulty breathing or a high fever that persists for more than three days, may signal the need for medical attention. 

Bacterial Infections 

Unlike viruses, bacteria are single-celled organisms that can multiply on their own. In Delaware, bacterial infections like strep throat, bacterial sinus infections, food poisoning, most urinary tract infections and skin conditions such as cellulitis are common, especially during the colder months when immune systems are often under stress. 

Bacterial infections tend to hit harder and faster than viral ones. For example, strep throat can cause a sudden onset of severe pain, high fever and difficulty swallowing. These infections often require antibiotics to treat, but it’s important to use them responsibly. Overuse of antibiotics can lead to resistance, making future infections harder to treat. 

How to Tell the Difference 

Distinguishing between viral and bacterial infections isn’t always straightforward, as they can share similar symptoms. Viral illnesses often develop gradually, starting with mild discomfort that builds over time. Bacterial infections, on the other hand, tend to strike suddenly and with greater intensity. If you’re unsure, it’s always better to consult a healthcare provider who can evaluate your symptoms and recommend the appropriate treatment. 

Get Immediate Care at Bayhealth 

Sometimes, a viral infection can pave the way for a bacterial one, so it’s important to monitor your symptoms closely. If you notice your condition worsening after several days, or if you experience severe symptoms like difficulty breathing, persistent vomiting, or a very high fever, it’s time to seek medical care. Other red flags include a stiff neck, a severe headache, or a skin infection that’s swollen or producing pus.  

At Bayhealth Total Care’s Emergency and Urgent Care Center, our primary goal is to provide the residents of Sussex County with exceptional service and the proper billing for the care they need. Our combined emergency room and urgent care in Milton are fully equipped to handle everything from allergies to chest pain 24/7 with on-site labs, X-ray, ultrasound and CT. 

Every patient at our ER and urgent care walk-in clinic is seen by an ER-trained physician at every visit, regardless of the level of care they need. Our approach makes care more affordable by avoiding the higher cost of the emergency room if patients only require urgent care services. Our ER and urgent care clinic is open 24/7. 

Bayhealth Total Care’s Emergency and Urgent Care Center is located at 18383 Hudson Road, Milton, DE 19968.