What is not the flu

Overview

Acute viral infections of the upper respiratory tract are benign affections that are caused by an array of respiratory viruses. They are spread by droplet infection and occur throughout the year, most frequently in the cold months when people rather gather in closed indoor premises. The infection rate is considerable, susceptibility high regardless of age, and the incubation period is only hours to three days. Treatment of uncomplicated cases is only symptomatic, the application of antibiotics not being appropriate. Prevention lies in evading close contact with manifestly diseased persons.

Key words:
upper respiratory tract, respiratory viruses, acute infection