URI stands for Upper Respiratory Infection, which is a medical condition that affects the nasal passages and throat. It is a common illness caused by a virus or bacteria that enters the body through the mouth or nose. The most common type of URI is the common cold, which affects both children and adults. The symptoms of URI include a cough, excess mucus, sore throat, runny nose, and fever.

URI is usually a mild illness that can go away without treatment. However, in some cases, it can lead to complications such as pneumonia, bronchitis, and meningitis. People with chronic respiratory conditions such as asthma are more likely to develop URI.

The treatment for URI depends on the cause and severity of the symptoms. Home remedies such as drinking plenty of water, using a humidifier, and taking pain relief medication can help relieve the symptoms. Over-the-counter medicines such as decongestants and pain relievers can also help. However, it is important to get the right diagnosis as the symptoms of URI can resemble those of other illnesses such as COVID-19, flu, and pneumonia.

It is recommended to see a doctor if the symptoms do not go away after two weeks or if they get worse. This is especially important for people who are over 65, pregnant, or have a weakened immune system. In addition, it is important to avoid over-prescribing antibiotics as they are not effective against viral infections.