What is a respiratory tract infection? A respiratory tract infection (RTI) is an infection that affects the respiratory tract, which is a general term used to describe the parts of our body involved in breathing, including the mouth, nose, sinuses, throat, larynx (voice box), trachea (windpipe), airways and lungs. 1 RTIs are very common, especially…
Bacterial or Viral RTI? Respiratory tract infections (RTIs) are mostly caused by either viruses or bacterium. Most upper RTIs are caused by viruses, which cannot be treated with antibiotics (these only work on bacterial infections). Our immune system can fight off most viral infections by itself1. Some lower RTIs like pneumonia are caused by bacteria.…
RTIs can be spread from person to person through the coughs and sneezes of someone with an infection or through direct or indirect contact. 1,2 What causes RTIs? If you have an RTI and are worried about spreading it to friends and family, or are worried about catching one, there are many simple actions you…
When it comes to respiratory tract infections (RTIs), one common question we ask ourselves is “Do I need to see a doctor?” Most RTIs will clear up by themselves in one to two weeks, and symptoms can usually be treated at home.1 However, some people are more at risk for complications from the infection and…