Which of the following best describes the difference between an antibiotic and an antiviral?

• A. Antibiotics inhibit viral replication, while antivirals kill bacteria.
• B. Antibiotics target bacteria, while antivirals target viruses.
• C. Antibiotics are effective against both bacteria and viruses, while antivirals only target viruses.
• D. Antibiotics are used to treat fungal infections, while antivirals treat bacterial infections.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the definitions of antibiotics and antivirals. Antibiotics are substances that specifically target bacteria, either killing them or inhibiting their growth.
2. Step 2: Recognize that antivirals are drugs designed to target viruses, interfering with their ability to replicate or infect host cells.
3. Step 3: Compare the targets of antibiotics and antivirals. Antibiotics do not work against viruses, and antivirals do not work against bacteria.
4. Step 4: Evaluate the given options by matching the correct target for each drug type: antibiotics for bacteria and antivirals for viruses.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the best description is the one stating that antibiotics target bacteria, while antivirals target viruses, as this accurately reflects their mechanisms and uses.