Thus, when a person does get a bacterial infection, the infection may be difficult to eradicate. In the past, many medical providers would prescribe antibiotics for viral upper respiratory infections. We often hear comments like my doctor always gives me penicillin when I get sick. Increasingly, the medical community is recognizing that antibiotics have been over prescribed, and are prescribing them less frequently when a virus causes the infection. As for upper respiratory infections, antibiotics are not helpful in these infections.
Treatment involves lessening the symptoms while the immune system fights the infection.
Treatment is not required but may make you feel better. All treatments are available without a prescription. Gargling with warm salt water lessens the pain of a sore throat. Acetaminophen or ibuprofen decreases fever and body aches. For congestion, use decongestants.