All of the following are characteristics of broad-spectrum antibiotics EXCEPT which one?

Broad-spectrum antibiotics are designed to target a wide range of bacteria, including both Gram-positive and Gram-negative organisms. Therefore, they are recognized for their ability to treat various bacterial infections without needing to first identify the specific pathogen.

The statement regarding their efficacy against both types of bacteria is accurate. Additionally, broad-spectrum antibiotics are often bactericidal, meaning they actively kill bacteria rather than simply inhibiting their growth.

However, the claim that broad-spectrum antibiotics act against fungal and viral agents is not aligned with their primary purpose. While broad-spectrum antibiotics cover a diverse bacterial spectrum, they do not affect fungi or viruses, which are completely different types of pathogens. Only antifungal agents would be effective against fungi, while antiviral medications target viruses. Therefore, the statement about acting against viral agents is the one that does not belong in the list of characteristics associated with broad-spectrum antibiotics.