Request an online visit for Upper respiratory infection. A licensed provider reviews your case and prescribes treatment when appropriate.
Board-Certified · Internal Medicine · Medical Director
All 50 states + DC·Video visit
In-network: Aetna, BCBS, UnitedHealthcare +18 more plans
An upper respiratory infection (URI) is a viral illness involving the nose, throat, and sinuses. Common pathogens include rhinovirus, coronavirus, RSV, influenza, parainfluenza, and adenovirus. Symptoms include nasal congestion, runny nose, sore throat, cough, low-grade fever, and fatigue, and typically resolve within 7–10 days. Antibiotics do not help and are not indicated. Supportive care — fluids, rest, saline rinses, analgesics, throat lozenges, and decongestants when appropriate — is the mainstay. Persistent fever, worsening after initial improvement, or focal symptoms warrant reassessment.