Possible Prophylactic Role of the S. Salivarius K12 Probiotic Strain for the Upper Respiratory Tract Infection and Nursery-age Children

Recurrent bacterial and viral infections of the pharynx, tonsils and ears are a problem that can affect children of all ages. The persistence of these infections can lead to an overuse of drugs such as antibiotics, antipyretics and anti-inflammatories, with the possible consequent presence of side effects and above all an increase in antibiotic resistance, a global public health issue.

In search at reducing the use of antibiotics and antivirals, there is currently a great scientific interest in probiotic therapies for the oral cavity infection.

The aim of this retrospective, controlled, multicenter, non-profit study is to evaluate the efficacy and safety of the administration of Streptococcus salivarius K12 in pediatric patients attending the 1st or 2nd year of nursery school (< 3 years of age ), in the prophylaxis of the most common bacterial or viral respiratory infections, assessing the consequent reduction in the use of antibiotics, antivirals or other therapies compared to children.