Symptoms and vulnerable groups for acute respiratory infections to watch out for

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Paediatrician and respiratory subspecialist Dr. dr. Nastiti Kaswandani, Sp.A, Subsp.Resp has detailed a number of symptoms and groups vulnerable to acute respiratory infections (ARI), particularly those emerging during the dry season.

Nastiti stated that the initial symptoms of ARI are typically marked by fever, cough, and a runny nose, a condition often known as the common cold or selesma.

“That is the mildest clinical manifestation of ARI. Usually, simple symptoms like fever, cough, and a runny nose will resolve on their own once the body responds by boosting its immunity,” she said.

She explained that an increased respiration rate can be observed when a child appears to be breathing heavily, as if they have just been running. Another symptom is what is called lower chest wall indrawing, or retraction.

Additionally, other conditions requiring immediate medical examination include seizures, a bluish discolouration around the mouth, decreased consciousness, fever with a temperature above 40 degrees Celsius, and repeated vomiting leading to inadequate fluid intake.

Nastiti noted that the groups most at risk of contracting ARI are those of a very young age, especially infants and toddlers, because their immune systems have not developed as well as those of adults and their airways are still very narrow.

“So, if swelling or a blockage occurs in these small, narrow airways, the effect of the obstruction will be much greater compared to adults,” she said.

“In addition, those who work outdoors and are directly exposed to smoke or fires are certainly among the most vulnerable groups,” she added.

In this context, Nastiti explained that during the dry season, the hot, dry air and low rainfall allow dust and pollutants to become airborne more easily, increasing the risk of inhalation and consequently raising the risk of ARI.

“Stay properly hydrated; do not let the body become dehydrated. By maintaining good hydration, we not only avoid dehydration, but the mucous membranes protecting our respiratory tract remain moist and continue to function well in fighting off particles that enter the airways,” she advised.