Viruses that Cause the Common Cold

If you recently had the common cold, you are hardly alone. This is likely the most frequent illness that medical professionals treat and that people deal with. The symptoms can range from minor to severe and everywhere in between. You may recover fully within a couple of days, or the cold may hang on for a couple of weeks. Knowing more about how colds develop can be helpful as you try to avoid and treat one.

What the common cold looks and feels like

People of any age can catch a cold. It most often afflicts young children, with kids getting up to 10 a year. Adults will usually have two to four colds a year. The elderly get fewer, often only one each year. It spreads through close contact between people. Touching and exposure to droplets from coughing and sneezing can pass the virus from individual to individual.

A cold will include symptoms of coughing, sneezing, and a sore throat. A runny or stuffy nose will usually come with a cold. The person may have body aches and chills too. A fever is possible, though it is usually a low-grade one. Headaches and difficulty breathing can also occur. Recovery can often take place without medical intervention, but urgent care visits may be necessary.

Rhinovirus

Also known as RV, this is one of the three viruses that can cause the common cold. It is the most common culprit of the illness. It is most prevalent during the winter and spring, but it is active throughout the year. It is highly contagious and can create widespread outbreaks. Rhinovirus can also cause other concerning infections. These include pneumonia, bronchitis, and sinusitis.

Coronavirus

There are 30 different forms of this virus, but only three can affect people. When it causes the common cold, it is responsible for about 20% of cases. Though it is around throughout the year, it is most active in the winter and early spring. It can also cause pandemics and other large outbreaks.

RSV

This virus is a significant concern, especially among babies and toddlers. In addition to the common cold, it can cause major respiratory illnesses. RSV causes about 20% of all colds. The symptoms can be extreme. If these symptoms do not improve or make it difficult to breathe, the person should visit the nearest urgent care right away.

Preventing exposure to colds

Being vigilant can keep a person away from these viruses. During peak months, be cautious about spending time in crowds when possible. Frequent handwashing with soap will also be effective. People should sanitize touchpoints in their home. Also, avoiding being around sick people can reduce a person’s risk of catching the common cold.