Upper Respiratory Tract Infection (URTI)
Date issued: November 2024
For review: November 2026
Ref: A-480/NK/Child Health/ Upper Respiratory Tract Infection (URTI) v2
PDF: Upper Respiratory Tract Infection (URTI)[pdf] 240KB
What is an URTI?
An Upper Respiratory Tract Infection is an infection of the upper airways usually caused by a virus. They normally get better within a week or two.
URTI’s include…
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The common cold
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Laryngitis (infection of the voice box/larynx)
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Tonsillitis / pharyngitis
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Runny nose
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Otitis media (ear infection)
These conditions are extremely common. It is normal for under 5 year olds to get as many as 12 URTIs in one year. Primary school aged children may get around 6 URTIs a year.
Symptoms of an URTI
The symptoms typically worsen over 2-3 days and then gradually clear. The cough may carry on for up to 3 weeks once the infection has gone.
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Blocked nose (congested)
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Runny nose (clear/yellow/green discharge)
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Sneezing
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Sore Throat
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Generally unwell
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Less energy than normal
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Cough
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A temperature
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Reduced appetite
Management of an URTI at home.
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Plenty of fluids
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Take paracetamol and/or Ibuprofen
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Saline nasal drops (if blocked nose)
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Antibiotics do not help treat an URTI
Prevention
Prevention is difficult, as most of the viruses that cause URTIs are in the air and on many surfaces and therefore hard to avoid. However, whilst your child has an URTI….
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Wash hands often
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Wash toys often
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Avoid sharing towels and flannels
When to see a Doctor
You should seek further advice if ….
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The symptoms do not settle after 2 weeks
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Less than 3 months of age and a temperature above 38C
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Wheezing
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Difficulty in breathing
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Less energy or irritable
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Has a fever lasting longer than 5 days
Please do not hesitate to contact the nurse or hospital doctor when within your 72 hours open access, or contact your health visitor or GP for further advice outside of this time.
72 hours open access.
Your child has been given 72 hours open access to the children’s assessment unit.
This enables you to contact a nurse/doctor if you are concerned about your child and need advice if the symptoms worsen or continue.
Advice is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week on 01752 430401 if within your 72 hours open access.
Should your child become unwell once the 72 hours open access has ended then please contact your GP or if necessary the emergency department.
In an emergency please call 999
