Pediatr. praxi. 2014;15(1):16-21

Reasonable treatment in children with respiratory infections

MUDr.Hana Roháčová, Ph.D.

Infekční klinika, Nemocnice Na Bulovce, Praha

Infections of the respiratory system constitute some of the most common childhood illnesses throughout the year. The number of

infections increases mainly in the colder months wherein children fall ill several times over the course of several months. These are

mainly mild upper respiratory cases. However there are cases that are not so trivial. These are mainly lower respiratory infections and

even inner ear complaints which can have a severe course and can be accompanied by a range of complication that may even lead

to long-term consequences. The vast majority of respiratory infections are of viral origin; therefore, their treatment is symptomatic.

Nevertheless, some illnesses are bacterial. These are either primary bacterial infections or arise as a complication of viral infection.

The appropriate treatment is then antibacterial. However, given the increasing incidence of resistance and possible complications

during antibacterial treatment, particularly with the current proliferation of Clostridium difficile enterocolitis (currently affecting

mainly adult patients), it is necessary to select an antibacterial agent with the narrowest spectrum and with a degree of certainty as

to the microbial cause of the infection.

Keywords: respiratory infections, aetiological agents of respiratory tract infections, antibiotic treatment, vaccination

Published: February 15, 2014  Show citation