What is the primary purpose of administering antibiotics?

The primary purpose of administering antibiotics is to treat bacterial infections. Antibiotics function by targeting bacteria specifically, either by killing them or inhibiting their growth, which helps to eliminate the infection from the body. This class of medications is designed to work against various types of bacteria, making them essential in managing infections caused by these pathogens.

In contrast, other options do not align with the primary action of antibiotics. For example, treating viral infections is not the role of antibiotics, as they are ineffective against viruses. Relieving pain and reducing inflammation can be managed with different types of medications, such as analgesics or anti-inflammatory drugs, but these are not antibiotics. Thus, the focus of antibiotics is firmly on addressing bacterial infections, justifying why this choice is the correct answer.