Final answer:
A bacterial infection causes inflammation and an immune response, leading to symptoms such as sore throat and fever. Antibiotics are used to combat the infection, although they can also affect the body's beneficial bacteria, sometimes resulting in side effects like diarrhea or yeast infections.
Step-by-step explanation:
The bacterial infection makes the child ill by causing inflammation and an immune response in the body. When the child is infected with bacteria such as Streptococcus pyogenes, which causes strep throat, the bacteria multiply and produce toxins. This leads to symptoms like a sore throat, fever, and body aches. The body's immune system fights the infection, which can also contribute to feeling unwell.
Antibiotics are prescribed to kill the bacteria causing the illness. However, antibiotics can also harm beneficial bacteria in the body, leading to side effects such as diarrhea or a yeast infection as seen in the case study of Wajiha. This is why it's essential to take the full course of antibiotics, as stopping early can promote the growth of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
In cases like Tracy's bacterial pneumonia, caused by Haemophilus influenzae, antibiotics are crucial for recovery, showing the importance of correct diagnosis and treatment. Tracy's recovery also demonstrates that the immune system, with the help of antibiotics, can overcome the infection, making a full recovery possible.