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September 25, 2025

Upper respiratory infections (URIs) can creep up on anyone, at any time. Whether it's a cold, flu, or other URIs, they can disrupt our daily lives and leave us feeling miserable. But when symptoms persist or worsen, it may mean you need medical attention. By understanding the symptoms, and your treatment options, you can make informed decisions about when and where to seek care. 

What is an upper respiratory infection?

A URI is an infection that occurs in the upper respiratory system, which includes the nose, throat, sinuses, and lungs. Viruses or bacteria can enter the body through respiratory droplets that are released when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks, as well as through contact with contaminated surfaces, or sharing of contaminated items. This can lead to symptoms such as a runny nose, sore throat, cough, feeling tired, headaches, and muscle or body aches.1

Doctor’s note: URIs are often spread through the air, but they can also spread through close contact with an infected person or contaminated surfaces.

URIs are more common in certain groups, including1:

  • Infants and young children, especially those in daycare or school
  • Older adults, especially those with weakened immune systems
  • People with underlying health conditions, such as asthma, heart disease, or diabetes
  • People with compromised immune systems
  • Pregnant women

Doctor’s note: URIs like the flu and common cold can be contagious even before symptoms appear. This is known as the incubation period.

Prevention is key

Preventing URIs requires a combination of good hygiene, healthy habits, and smart lifestyle choices. Here are some tips to help you reduce your risk2:

  • Wash your hands frequently with soap and water
  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick
  • Practice good hygiene, such as covering your mouth when you cough or sneeze
  • Get plenty of rest and stay hydrated
  • Keep your immune system strong by exercising regularly and eating a healthy diet
  • Talk to your doctor about vaccinations for flu and other respiratory infections

Doctor’s note: Antibiotics don’t work against viral URIs, which is the most common type, like colds or the flu. You only need antibiotics if a doctor diagnoses you with a bacterial URI.

Know where to go for care

If you suspect you have a URI, don't wait to get care. Early URI treatment from your primary care doctor can save you time, money, and a trip to the emergency room (ER). An ER visit can cost two to three times more than a visit to your primary doctor.3

Here are some convenient and effective options for getting the care you need for URIs:

  • Primary care doctors: Your primary care doctor is your best resource for early treatment of a URI. They know your medical history and can provide personalized care.
  • Urgent care and retail clinics: If your primary care doctor isn't available for a same-day appointment, check to see where your local in-network urgent care or retail care clinics are located. Urgent care clinics can provide faster and cost-effective treatment for URIs, often at a lower cost than the ER. Before visiting a retail clinic, call ahead to confirm that they treat URIs and are in-network.
  • Virtual care: Virtual care options, such as online consultations, can provide convenient and rapid care for URIs. If your health care provider doesn’t offer virtual care, check with your insurance provider to see if virtual care options are covered under your plan.

Untreated URIs can lead to complications such as pneumonia.4 But if caught early, they're usually easy to treat with rest, hydration, and over-the-counter medications. Antibiotics may be prescribed if the infection is caused by bacteria.

Doctor's note: If you have a URI, don't try to "tough it out" - taking time off to rest and recover can help prevent the spread of the infection and reduce the risk of complications.

Upper respiratory infections can be a nuisance, but by understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options, you can take control of your health and reduce the risk of complications. By getting the right care at the right time and place, you can get back to your life faster and save time and money.

To learn more about the symptoms, causes, and treatment options for URIs, read our related article.

1 CDC. Respiratory Illnesses.

2 CDC. Preventing Respiratory Viruses.

3 MedlinePlus: When to use the emergency room

4 Cleveland Clinic. Upper Respiratory Infection (URI).