People at risk

• Children and adolescents especially, but all ages can be affected.

• People with seasonal allergies to pollen or who have allergic reactions to dust, mold or animals.
• People with frequent or chronic sinus infections.
• People with weakened immune systems, such as people with HIV infection, diabetes, or taking steroids or chemotherapy.
• People who are stressed, tired or having a bad diet.
• Smokers

   

Risk factors

• Active or passive smoking.
• Exposure to chemical irritants such as gasoline combustion products or household products that irritate the throat.
• Heating to too high temperatures or air conditioning
• Live or work in the presence of many people (daycares, schools, offices) which exposes to contamination by various viruses.

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