An upper respiratory infection (URI) is an infection affecting the upper part of your respiratory system, which includes the nose, sinuses, and throat. These common illnesses are often caused by viruses, though bacteria can sometimes be responsible. URIs are contagious, meaning they can easily spread from one person to another.
How Upper Respiratory Infections Spread
Upper respiratory infections primarily spread through respiratory droplets released when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. These tiny droplets, containing viruses or bacteria, can travel through the air and be inhaled by others nearby. Direct contact with an infected individual can also facilitate transmission, such as shaking hands.
Another common way URIs spread is through indirect contact with contaminated surfaces. When an infected person coughs or sneezes into their hands, or touches their nose or mouth, they can transfer germs to objects like doorknobs, light switches, or shared utensils. If another person then touches these contaminated surfaces and subsequently touches their own nose, mouth, or eyes, they can become infected.
When Are Upper Respiratory Infections Contagious
A person with an upper respiratory infection can begin spreading the illness before symptoms even appear, during what is known as the incubation period. For instance, with the common cold, this period ranges from one to three days. This means someone might be contagious without realizing they are sick.
Contagiousness is highest during the first few days of symptoms, when symptoms are most severe. This heightened period of transmission lasts for about two to three days after symptoms begin. While the most infectious period is early in the illness, an individual can remain contagious as long as they are experiencing symptoms, which can last for up to two weeks, even if symptoms are improving. Bacterial sinus infections, however, are not considered contagious.
Stopping the Spread
Practicing good hand hygiene is an important step in preventing the spread of URIs. Thoroughly washing hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after coughing, sneezing, or blowing your nose, removes germs. If soap and water are not readily available, an alcohol-based hand sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol can be used to kill germs. This simple action reduces the likelihood of transferring pathogens from hands to the face or to other surfaces.
Implementing proper respiratory etiquette is another effective strategy. This involves covering your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, and immediately disposing of the used tissue in a trash can. If a tissue is not available, coughing or sneezing into your upper sleeve or elbow, rather than your hands, helps contain respiratory droplets.
Avoiding touching your face, particularly your eyes, nose, and mouth, minimizes the chances of introducing germs from your hands into your respiratory system. Regularly cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched surfaces like doorknobs, light switches, and phone screens also helps break the chain of transmission by removing lingering pathogens. Staying home when sick, especially during the most contagious period, prevents further spread to others in the community or workplace.