Superinfection: What is It and What Helps?

A superinfection occurs when additional bacteria colonize the respiratory tract after a virus-induced infection. We explain what helps.

What is a superinfection?

An infection of the upper respiratory tract, for example a cold, is usually caused by viruses. Our immune system fights the pathogens and is weakened by the disease. Bacteria take advantage of this weakness: they can settle more easily on the mucous membranes of the respiratory tract that are already infected by viruses and trigger a so-called superinfection or secondary infection there.

The “super” in this case is derived from Latin and means “on top”. For example, a simple cold can turn into an inflammation of the middle ear or acute bronchitis. The bacteria have it particularly easy when the first infection is carried over by the patient.

There are certain risk groups where superinfection is more likely to occur than in other people. These include older patients and those with a weakened immune system. In addition, the risk of secondary infection is much higher for influenza than for colds.

How do bacteria colonize?

The mucous membranes of the nose and bronchial tubes are particularly at risk for a superinfection. As a result of an infestation with viruses, the uppermost mucosal cells with the so-called cilia, which normally transport pathogens back out of the body, are heavily burdened or even destroyed. As a result, bacteria can directly colonize the second cell line and cause inflammation. By the way: the pathogens do not always come from outside the body. They can also have been in the body for a long time, but have been blocked by the immune system. It is only through the virus infection and the weakened immune defence that they succeed in colonising the mucous membranes.

What diseases are caused by a superinfection?

The following other diseases can result from a superinfection:

• Bronchitis
• Pneumonia
• Tonsillitis
• Middle ear infection
• Pleurisy

Another reason not to carry off a cold: It can lead to inflammation of the heart muscle or brain and meninges – potentially fatal.

Symptoms: How can I recognize a superinfection?

The suspicion of a superinfection can really be confirmed by a smear test taken by a doctor. Patients should pay attention to the following symptoms, which may indicate an infestation with bacteria:

• Greenish or yellowish discolored sputum when coughing (you can find out all about coughing with sputum here)
• High fever that lasts for a long time
• Strong feeling of illness

It is also typical that the initial infection was actually almost over and coughing, sniffles and co. had largely subsided before the symptoms flare up again and the fever sets in.

Treatment: What helps with a superinfection?

Antibiotics are primarily used to combat bacteria – which is why going to the doctor is so important in this case. Patients should also be careful to take the medication exactly as directed by their doctor and not to stop taking it early, even though they may feel better. This can lead to the remaining bacteria developing resistance to the antibiotic. Otherwise, the same rules apply as for a “normal” cold: home remedies for colds, home remedies for coughs and home remedies for sore throats can help get rid of the symptoms.

How can I avoid a bacterial superinfection?

Ultimately, a secondary infection can be prevented in the same way as a cold: a healthy lifestyle based on a healthy diet, plenty of exercise and not smoking strengthens the immune system. In addition, frequent hand washing is compulsory, especially in the cold winter months. Also, regular airing helps to get the pathogens in the air out of the home.