RTIs (respiratory tract infections)
How respiratory infections spread
RTIs can spread in several ways. If you have an infection such as a cold, tiny droplets of fluid containing the cold virus are launched into the air whenever you sneeze or cough . If these are breathed in by someone else, they may also become infected.
Infections can also be spread through indirect contact. For example, if you have a cold and you touch your nose or eyes before touching an object or surface, the virus may be passed to someone else when they touch that object or surface.
The best way to prevent spreading infections is to practise good hygiene, such as regularly washing your hands with soap and warm water.
Other symptoms include headaches , a stuffy or runny nose, a sore throat , sneezing and muscle aches.
Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 21 Dec 2018
Introduction
Find out more about the different types of lower and upper respiratory tract infections (RTIs), how the infections spread and when you should see your GP.
How respiratory infections spread
RTIs can spread in several ways. If you have an infection such as a cold, tiny droplets of fluid containing the cold virus are launched into the air whenever you sneeze or cough . If these are breathe
Lower respiratory tract infections
Common lowerRTIs include: flu which can affect either the upper or lower respiratory tract bronchitis infection of the airways pneumonia infection of the lungs bronchiolitis an infection
Managingyour symptoms at home
Most RTIs pass without the need for treatment and you won'tusually need to see your GP. You can treat your symptoms at home by taking over-the-counter painkillers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen , d
When you should see your GP
Visit your GP if: your symptoms suggest you may have pneumonia for example, if you're coughing up bloody mucus and phlegm you have a pre-existing heart, lung, liver or kidney condition you have a
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