Question
With the recent changes in weather, a child has developed a fever due to improper dressing. Although the fever has been reduced with infusion (intravenous drip) medication for a few days, symptoms such as runny nose, sneezing, and nasal congestion persist, and medication has not improved these symptoms. The doctor diagnosed it as an upper respiratory infection and inquired about how to handle it and understand the cause.
Answer
Upper respiratory infections are acute inflammations of the nose to the throat, commonly caused by viruses and sometimes secondary to bacterial infections. This condition can occur throughout the year and affects individuals of all ages. It is primarily transmitted through droplets containing the virus or by touching contaminated objects. When the body’s resistance is low, such as from catching a cold, overexertion, or being caught in the rain, the existing virus or bacteria from the outside can rapidly multiply, leading to infection. Generally, the prognosis is good, with self-limiting characteristics, and recovery usually occurs within 5 to 7 days. Occasionally, complications such as bronchitis, pneumonia, and sinusitis may occur, and in rare cases, myocarditis, nephritis, or rheumatic fever may be triggered.