Viral URTI:
- These illnesses are best treated with symptomatic therapy including paracetamol, nasal saline drops, rest, oral fluids, humidification, anti-tussives such as dextromethorphan/ codeine and certain home remedies such as honey, ginger etc.
- Antimicrobial therapy is not indicated for viral URTI.
- The use of oseltamivir in patients with influenza when started within 48 hours of onset reduces duration of symptoms by 1 day, viral shedding/ infectiousness and may reduce the risk of development of complications. Empiric therapy with oseltamivir may be considered in patients with influenza like illness during an ongoing outbreak if they are at high risk of complications such as pregnant women, those with co-morbidities and the immunocompromised.