4 Sep 2023

Build Immune Defences Against Upper Respiratory Tract Infections

Upper respiratory tract infections (URTls) are a group of infectious diseases that affect the upper respiratory tract, including the nose, throat, sinuses, and can extend to the Eustachian tubes (in the ears). Infections can be caused by both viruses and bacteria and include the Common Cold, Influenza, and Strep Throat that lead to Sinusitis, Pharyngitis, Tonsillitis, and Otitis Media. In general, URTls cause inflammation in the respiratory system, which can result in symptoms such as a runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, coughing, difficulty breathing and pain. The immune system responds to the infection by releasing immune stimulating cytokines, to help prepare immune cells and epithelial cells for invasion from an enemy. This also includes production of antibodies.