Which condition is often treated with cefazolin?

Cefazolin is a first-generation cephalosporin antibiotic that is primarily used to treat bacterial infections. It is effective against a wide range of gram-positive bacteria, including staphylococci and streptococci, and is often used in surgical prophylaxis to prevent infections during and after procedures. This antibiotic is particularly beneficial in cases where the pathogens involved are known or likely to be susceptible to cephalosporins.

In the context of the options provided, the reason bacterial infections is the correct choice is that cefazolin's mechanism of action targets the cell wall synthesis of bacteria, making it ineffective against viral, fungal, or parasitic pathogens. Viral infections would require antivirals, fungal infections would need antifungals, and parasitic infections would be treated with antiparasitic medications. Therefore, the role of cefazolin is specific to tackling bacterial infections, which aligns with its pharmacological profile and clinical indications.