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Nutrition6 papers

Viral upper respiratory tract infection

Last edited: 4/15/2026

Overview

Viral upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs) are common illnesses characterized by symptoms such as cough, sore throat, nasal congestion, and rhinorrhea, typically caused by viruses like rhinoviruses, coronaviruses, and influenza viruses 1.

Diagnosis

  • Clinical symptoms including fever, cough, sore throat, and nasal symptoms
  • Rapid viral testing (PCR or antigen tests) can confirm specific viral etiology but is often not routinely necessary for management 1
  • No specific laboratory grading system; diagnosis primarily clinical 1

    • Management

  • Supportive care: Rest, hydration, symptomatic relief with analgesics (e.g., acetaminophen) and decongestants 1
  • Vitamin D supplementation: Consider in children with low 25(OH)D levels; daily doses of 2000 IU may not offer additional benefit over 400 IU, though individual studies show mixed results 1

    • Special Populations

  • Pediatrics: Lower 25(OH)D concentrations correlate with increased susceptibility to URTIs; vitamin D supplementation may benefit those with deficiency 1
  • No specific recommendations provided for pregnancy or elderly populations in the abstracts

    • Key Recommendations

  • Evaluate serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) levels in children with recurrent URTIs and consider supplementation if deficient (Evidence: Moderate) 1
  • Provide symptomatic treatment with analgesics and hydration for comfort and relief (Evidence: Expert opinion) 1
  • Routine use of high-dose vitamin D supplementation (beyond 400 IU) for preventing URTIs in children is not strongly supported by current evidence (Evidence: Weak) 1

    • References

    1 Devulapalli CS. Vitamin D supplements reduce risk of viral upper respiratory infections in children with lower concentrations. Acta paediatrica (Oslo, Norway : 1992) 2025. link

    Original source

    1. [1]
      Vitamin D supplements reduce risk of viral upper respiratory infections in children with lower concentrations. — Devulapalli CS Acta paediatrica (Oslo, Norway : 1992) (2025)
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