What is an upper respiratory tract infection?
An upper respiratory tract infection (URTI), also referred to as a cold, is a viral infection that causes inflammation and infection in the nose and throat. It occurs in children about 5 or 6 times a year, and more times in children who attend daycare. Colds occur more frequently in toddlers because their immune system is developing, and also because they are more often exposed to viruses (about 200 cold-causing viruses). Upper respiratory tract infections are contagious and can remain as such from a few hours after symptoms appear to 2 to 3 days. Duration of the symptoms is 7 to 10 days but may persist longer. What are the signs and symptoms? • Stuffy nose • Runny nose • Sneezing • Coughing • Soar throat • Fever • Vomiting • Irritability and crying • Loss of appetite • Watery eyesAntibiotics are not necessary because these colds are caused by viruses and not by bacteria. Antibiotics do not fight against viruses. What to do when your child has an upper respiratory tract infection? • Le
