Definition of Viral infection
Viral infection: Infection caused by the
presence of a virus in the body.
Depending on the virus and the person's state of health, various viruses can
infect almost any type of body tissue, from the brain to the skin. Viral
infections cannot be treated with antibiotics; in fact, in some cases the use of
antibiotics makes the infection worse. The vast majority of human viral
infections can be effectively fought by the body's own
immune system, with a
little help in the form of proper diet, hydration, and rest. As for the rest, treatment
depends on the type and location of the virus, and may
include anti-viral or other drugs.
Last Editorial Review: 11/23/1999 8:49:00 PM
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