What ARI Is
ARI stands for acute respiratory infection — an infection of the respiratory organs from the nose, throat, and bronchi to the lungs. It typically lasts up to about 14 days, with main symptoms of cough, cold, and fever. ARI is among the most common illnesses, especially during the rainy season and when air pollution rises.
More than 300 kinds of microorganisms can cause ARI, but viruses are the most common culprits. They include the influenza virus, rhinovirus that causes the common cold, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), adenovirus, and SARS-CoV-2 that causes Covid-19. Bacteria such as Streptococcus pneumoniae and Haemophilus influenzae can also cause ARI, though less often.
ARI Symptoms and Transmission
ARI symptoms range from mild to severe depending on the cause. Common symptoms include cough, cold, sore throat, fever and chills, headache, muscle aches, and fatigue. In more severe cases, sufferers may experience shortness of breath, wheezing, chest pain, and serious complications such as pneumonia.
ARI spreads through droplets when sufferers cough, sneeze, or talk and are inhaled by healthy people, and through touching contaminated surfaces. Air pollution and cigarette smoke can also trigger and aggravate ARI, as pollutant particles irritate the airways.
Treating ARI
ARI treatment is tailored to the cause and severity. When caused by a virus, treatment is symptomatic: enough rest, plenty of fluids, and fever reducers or pain relievers such as paracetamol. Doctors only prescribe antibiotics when ARI is bacterial, for example in bacterial sinusitis or pneumonia.
It is important not to take antibiotics carelessly, as they are ineffective against viruses and risk causing resistance. If ARI is suspected, consult a doctor for an accurate diagnosis. Severe ARI cases with serious breathing problems may require oxygen therapy or even hospital admission.
How to Prevent ARI
The main prevention for ARI is practicing clean and healthy habits. Wash hands regularly with soap and running water, especially after activities in public places, after coughing or sneezing, and before eating. Practice cough and sneeze etiquette by covering your mouth and nose with a tissue or the inside of your elbow.
Other preventive steps include wearing a mask in public places or crowds, avoiding close contact with sick people, staying home when ill so as not to infect others, keeping home ventilation and cleanliness, quitting smoking and avoiding secondhand smoke, and getting vaccinated, such as the annual flu shot. If danger signs appear — severe shortness of breath, bluish lips, or decreased consciousness — seek medical help immediately.
