WANTED: COMMON COLD
Rhinovirus
Human rhinovirus is the most common viral infective disease in the human body, and is the main cause of the common cold. It spreads in areas that are 91-95 degrees Fahrenheit, which is why it usually occurs in the nose. Human rhinoviruses go through the lytic cycle and among the smallest viruses. Given it's name, the human rhinovirus is most common in humans.
Damage
The common cold doesn't do any serious and/or permanent damage to the human body. At most, it gives the host a runny nose, cough, headache, sore throat, loss of smelling ability, etc.
Spreading
The common cold is highly contagious. It can spread in the air through uncovered coughs or sneezes that are inhaled by another person. They can also spread through hand-to-hand contact or hand-to-infected surface contact.
Treatment
Although there's no cure for the common cold, there is treatment. The cold will go away quicker if you
- rest in bed
- drink plenty of fluids
- gargle warm salt water to help soothe your sore throat
- take aspirin (Tylenol) to get rid of headaches
Interesting Facts
- Kids can get as many as 12 colds a year, adults usually only 2-4.
- About 15% of colds are caused by the flu virus
- Someone with the cold is most contagious during days 2-4
- Scientists say you can't catch a cold through kissing. You need to spend a few hours with someone to catch the cold.