Description

🦠 Viral Upper Respiratory Tract Infection (Viral URTI) Definition: A Viral Upper Respiratory Tract Infection (URTI) is a common infection that affects the nose, throat, and upper airways (the respiratory tract above the lungs). It is usually caused by viruses and often referred to as the common cold. ⸻ 🔹 Common Causative Viruses • Rhinovirus (most common) • Adenovirus • Coronavirus • Parainfluenza virus • Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) • Influenza virus ⸻ 🔹 Mode of Transmission • Airborne droplets from coughing or sneezing • Direct contact with infected person • Touching contaminated surfaces and then touching the nose, mouth, or eyes ⸻ 🔹 Affected Parts of the Body • Nose (rhinitis) • Throat (pharyngitis) • Sinuses (sinusitis) • Ears (otitis media – in some cases) • Larynx (laryngitis) ⸻ 🔹 Common Symptoms • Sore throat • Runny or stuffy nose • Sneezing • Cough • Mild fever • Headache • Fatigue • Hoarse voice • Mild body ache Symptoms usually appear 1–3 days after exposure and last 5–10 days. ⸻ 🔹 Diagnosis Usually clinical — based on history and symptoms. Lab tests are not needed unless complications or severe infection are suspected. ⸻ 🔹 Treatment There is no specific antiviral for most viral URTIs. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive: • Rest and fluids • Warm saline gargles • Steam inhalation • Paracetamol for fever or body ache • Decongestants (if prescribed) • Avoid unnecessary antibiotics (since it’s viral) ⸻ 🔹 Prevention • Frequent hand washing • Cover mouth and nose while sneezing/coughing • Avoid close contact with sick people • Maintain good hydration and nutrition • Annual flu vaccination (for influenza prevention) ⸻ 🔹 Complications (if untreated or severe) • Sinusitis • Ear infection (otitis media) • Bronchitis • Pneumonia (rare in viral URTI, more in secondary bacterial infection)

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