The upper respiratory tract infections are very common in the fall when schools and kindergartens open and parents are…running. They are usually of short duration and gravity and rarely worry the parents and the doctor.
Symptoms
The symptoms of seasonal infections vary:
- Runny nose or runny nose
- Sneeze
- Irritation or neck pain
- Cough with or without fever.
- The general condition of the child is good, but it is more easily tired especially when it has a fever.
Treatment
Autologous respiratory infections usually do not require special treatment because they are self-limited and self-cured without medication. We recommend adequate hydration, fresh juices, good nutrition and rest. If there is a fever, we give antipyretics. If symptoms persist for over 72 hours, the child should be examined by a pediatrician. If, however, the general condition of the child is not good and it might be suffering from a microbial infection, then it should be immediately examined by a pediatrician in order to proceed if needed with the necessary examinations and antibiotics.
The transmission of such infections are facilitated by certain weather conditions related to temperature, humidity, pollution, but mainly among children in schools and kindergartens. The virus is transmitted from one child to another by droplets that enclose the virus and are present in shawls, sighs, coughs, hands. Therefore, to prevent the virus transmission, it includes good hand washing and, if possible, put the child’s hand in front of the mouth and nose when sneezed or coughing does not spread droplets around people and washing its hands afterwards.
If there is a baby in the family of the child who has viral infection of the upper respiratory tract, the child with the symptoms should wear a mask that covering the nose and mouth so as not to spread the virus infection to the infant. Moreover, the sick child can also transmit the virus to his or her parents or other adults as well. Particular attention should be paid here if there is a pregnant in the child’s environment.
If the viruses in a child are very common, and if it is gets completely well and after a few days or 2-3 weeks gets a new virus, then it should be considered if the child has some sensitivity that facilitates frequent viral infections.
This sensitivity may be related to the defense system’s integrity that ensures the health of children and adults. Problems of the defense system might derive from its late maturation, its over-reaction to various external or other factors that can be effectively addressed if the correct diagnosis is made. It is worth mentioning that there are children with fever and sore throat almost on a monthly basis.
The causes for such a syndrome are enough but most of the causes are simple and can be successfully dealt with. In such cases, advise your pediatrician or a specialist.
In conclusion, upper respiratory tract infections in children are generally harmless and are usually treated by simply supporting the child with enough fluid, juices, good food and sleep, and antipyretics in the event of fever. However, if it is very common to a child, then the child’s sensitivity to viral infections must be investigated and treated accordingly so that the child enjoys a healthy and normal life both at home and at school.