Use of humidifiers/vaporizers, decongestants and mucolitic agents for treating Upper Respiratory Infections

The best preventive measure for upper respiratory infections is practicing good hygiene. In general, the more intimate physical contact (such as hugging, snuggling, or bed sharing) that takes place with an ill child, the greater the risk of spreading the infection to other family members. Children should stay home from school or child care until the fever is gone and they feel well enough to attend.

Influenza is the only viral respiratory infection preventable by vaccination. Doctors recommend that all children aged 6 to 24 months should receive a yearly vaccination, as should older children with chronic illnesses such as heart or lung disease (including cystic fibrosis and asthma), diabetes, kidney failure and immune deficiency.

Antibiotics are not necessary to treat viral respiratory tract infections. Children with respiratory tract infections need additional rest and should maintain normal fluid intake. Acetaminophen or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, can be given for fever and aches. School-aged children may take a non-prescription decongestant for bothersome nasal congestion. In infants and young children, congestion may be relieved somewhat by using a humidifier or vaporizer and by suctioning the mucus from the nose.