As the name suggests, an upper respiratory infection is an infection in the upper respiratory tract. The upper respiratory tract includes the nose, bronchi, larynx, pharynx, and throat. An upper respiratory infection can be contagious, with the most common type being the common cold. There are other types of upper respiratory infections that can be transferred from one person to another, including pharyngitis and bronchitis. The rhinovirus is another common cause of an upper respiratory infection, and bacteria like streptococci can also cause this type of illness.
The infection is usually spread when droplets of germs from the mouth or nose are expelled into the air when the infected person coughs or sneezes. Germ-laden hands touching items that are later touched by healthy people can spread the infection as well. If you or your child are experiencing symptoms like coughing, pain when swallowing and sore throat, runny nose, and sneezing, head to FastMed Urgent Care to be seen right away and rule out an upper respiratory infection or be treated for the condition so you can get well soon.
About FastMed
FastMed is a North Carolina-based integrated healthcare company based in Durham, NC. It operates more than 50 locations in 34 counties providing urgent care and occupational health as well as primary care at select locations. FastMed accepts most insurance plans and is one of a few private urgent care centers also accredited by The Joint Commission. Learn more at fastmed.com.