Probiotics in Respiratory Tract Infections in Children

Role of Probiotics in Prevention of Respiratory Tract Infections in Preschool and Primary School Children

The purpose of this study is to assess the potential of probiotics in prevention of respiratory tract infections and their complications in children

Inclusion Criteria:

• Age 3-12 yrs
• At least one episode of respiratory tract infection in the previous epidemiological season
• Direct telephone access available
• Informed consent signed

Exclusion Criteria:

• Vaccination against the influenza
• Chronic adeno-tonsillar pathology
• Recurrent otitis
• Sinusitis
• Respiratory allergy
• Acute or chronic intestinal disease with diarrhea and/or malabsorption syndrome
• Lactose intolerance
• Functional or organic constipation
• Down syndrome
• Congenital or acquired heart disease
• Cerebral palsy
• Any chronic hepatic, renal, metabolic, or immune system disease