Viral vs Bacterial Infections in Indiana

In Indiana, we see a variety of illnesses, but they almost always fall into two categories: viral or bacterial.

That cough, fever, or sore throat can show up any time of year. While it’s easy to blame it on "just a bug," understanding how to navigate between the most common viral and bacterial infections is the first step toward getting better and ensuring you can get the right care, right when you need it.

Viral Infections in Indiana

Viral infections are caused by tiny germs that spread easily from person to person and are a leading cause of illness in Indiana year-round.

The most common viral infections here are influenza (the flu), COVID-19 and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). These viruses often share symptoms like fever, cough, sore throat, fatigue, body aches, and sometimes a runny nose or shortness of breath.

Most viral infections can be managed at home with rest, fluids and over-the-counter remedies. However, you should seek medical care if you have difficulty breathing, persistent chest pain, a high fever that doesn’t go away, confusion or signs of dehydration.

Infants, older adults, and those with chronic health conditions should be especially cautious and contact a medical provider promptly if symptoms worsen.

Bacterial Infections in Indiana

Bacterial infections are caused by harmful bacteria that can invade the body and multiply, sometimes leading to serious illness.

In Indiana, the most common bacterial infections include a severe sore throat without a cough (strep throat), a productive cough with chest pain and high fever (pneumonia) or painful, red, and swollen skin (cellulitis). These conditions often appear suddenly with more localized or intense symptoms compared to viral infections.

When Should You Seek Medical Attention?

Bacterial infections usually require antibiotics for treatment and are prescribed only when needed.

You should seek medical care if you have a severe sore throat with high fever, trouble breathing, chest pain, confusion, rapidly spreading skin redness or any wound that looks infected. Prompt care can help prevent complications and speed up recovery. When you’re feeling sick, deciding where to go for care can be confusing. Riverview Health Emergency Room & Urgent Care is the only health system in Hamilton County offering ER and urgent care services under one roof. Unlike most ER or urgent care centers, patients are only billed for the level of services they need. The ER is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The urgent care center is open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily. No appointments are necessary for in-person visits.

Riverview Health Emergency Room & Urgent Care has four convenient locations:

• Riverview Health Westfield Hospital is located at 17600 Shamrock Blvd, Westfield, IN 46074, and may be reached at 317.214.5555.
• Riverview Health Emergency Room & Urgent Care Carmel is located at 14585 Hazel Dell Pkwy., Carmel, IN 46033, and may be reached at 317.406.4280.
• Riverview Health Emergency Room & Urgent Care Fishers is located at 9690 E. 116th St., Fishers, IN 46037, and may be reached at 317.406.4585.
• Riverview Health Emergency Room & Urgent Care West Carmel/Zionsville is located at 10830 N. Michigan Rd., Zionsville, IN 46077, and may be reached at 317.406.4713.