Role of Probiotics in the Prevention of Recurrent Upper Respiratory Tract Infections in the Pediatric Age Group

Abstract

Objectives: To determine the role of probiotics in prevention of recurrent upper respiratory tract infection in children.

Methodology: This quasi-experimental study was conducted at Pediatrics department of Combined Military Hospital, Quetta, Pakistan from October-2024 to April-2025. A total of 64 children with recurrent upper respiratory tract infection were included who were divided into Group-P (probiotic) and Group-S (no probiotics). Children were followed up after three months to assess for recurrence. Analysis of data was performed through Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) software version 22.

Results: Median age was 5.00 (3.00) years. There were 45 (70.30%) male and 19 (29.70%) female patients. Median number of episodes of URTI in three months at the end of study in Group-P was 1.00 (2.00) while in Group-S it was 2.00 (3.00), (p = 0.136). Frequency of recurrence of URTI in Group-P (n = 32) at three months follow up was 9 (28.13%) while in Group-S (n = 32), it was 17 (53.13%), (p = 0.042).

Conclusion: Probiotics are highly useful in prevention of recurrent upper respiratory tract infection in children.

Keywords: Infections, Probiotics, Recurrence, Respiratory Tract.