Upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs) are common in children and represent an important cause of antibiotic abuse which causes antibiotic resistance. A survey was conducted in Chennai  to assess parents’ and pediatricians’ Knowledge, Attitude and Practices (KAP) concerning the role of antibiotics in children with URTIs. A KAP questionnaire was designed and distributed to the school students. A different questionnaire was distributed to the doctors. Demographic factors associated with antibiotic misuse were statistically analysed. The parental overall response rate was 70.8%. Parents (N = 502) follow pediatricians advice and rarely administer antibiotics acquired over the counter. But one  third expects an antibiotic prescription for URTI symptoms. Low parental education was the most important independent risk factor . Pediatricians (N = 23) denied prescribing antibiotics after parental pressure but admit that parents ask for antibiotics and believe they expect antibiotic prescriptions even when not required.