Upper respiratory infection (URI)

Upper respiratory infections are among the most common reasons people seek medical care, especially during cold and flu season. At Aurora Health Care, we’re here to help you feel better faster with expert care and convenient access to treatment options.

What is an upper respiratory infection?

An upper respiratory infection (URI), also called an upper respiratory tract infection, is a contagious illness that affects your nose, throat and sinuses. It’s commonly caused by a virus, such as the rhinovirus, that causes the common cold. However, it can also be caused by bacteria.

Common types of upper respiratory infections include:

• Common cold
• Sinusitis
• Pharyngitis (sore throat)
• Laryngitis (voice box inflammation)

What causes upper respiratory infections?

Upper respiratory infections are usually caused by viruses:

• Rhinovirus (common cold)
• Influenza virus
• Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)
• Adenovirus

They can also be caused by bacteria, especially in more severe illnesses such as strep throat or sinus infections.

How long is an upper respiratory infection contagious?

Most upper respiratory infections are highly contagious, especially in the first few days. You can spread it through coughing, sneezing or touching shared surfaces. On average, an upper respiratory infection can be contagious for three to 10 days.

What are the symptoms of an upper respiratory infection?

Upper respiratory infection symptoms vary depending on the cause but often include:

• Coughing and sneezing
• Nasal congestion or discharge
• Throat irritation or hoarseness
• Low-grade fever
• General fatigue or body aches

If your symptoms worsen after a few days or last more than 10 days, it could be a sign of a bacterial infection or another condition that needs medical attention.

How do you diagnose & treat upper respiratory infections?

Most URIs can be diagnosed based on your symptoms and a physical exam. In some cases, your doctor may recommend a throat swab or nasal swab to identify the virus or bacteria causing the infection.

There’s no cure for most viral URIs, but treatments focus on relieving symptoms. Common symptom treatment includes:

• Rest and hydration
• Over-the-counter medications for pain, fever or congestion
• Humidifiers or saline sprays
• Prescription antibiotics if a bacterial infection is confirmed