Viruses are the smallest of all living things. They are composed of a genetic material (DNA or RNA) surrounded by a protein coat. Viruses are obligate intracellular parasites, meaning they can only replicate inside the cells of a host organism. This makes them dependent on their host for survival. Examples of viral diseases include influenza, HIV, COVID-19 and MonkeyPox(Mpox).
Bacteria, on the other hand, are single-celled organisms that can exist independently. They have a cell wall, cytoplasm, and ribosomes, allowing them to carry out essential life functions. Bacteria can be both beneficial and harmful. Some bacteria are essential for human health, such as those found in the gut microbiome, while others can cause diseases like tuberculosis and pneumonia.