Upper Respiratory Infections

Upper respiratory infections (URIs) are illnesses caused by viruses and bacteria that affect the airways in the nose, throat, and sinuses. Common symptoms include a runny nose, sore throat, sneezing, coughing, and congestion. URIs can be mild or severe, and are usually self-limiting, meaning they get better on their own without treatment. Because many URIs are caused by viruses, antibiotics are not typically prescribed. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and reducing discomfort. Complications of URIs can include sinusitis, otitis media, and pneumonia, so alerting a healthcare provider if symptoms worsen or fail to improve is important. URIs are a common medical problem and usually occur seasonally due to changing environmental conditions. Prevention includes handwashing, avoiding close contact with those who are ill, and getting vaccinated.