# Common cold

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Common viral infection of the upper respiratory tract

Not to be confused with [Influenza](/source/Influenza).

Medical condition

Common cold Other names Cold, acute viral nasopharyngitis, nasopharyngitis, viral rhinitis, rhinopharyngitis, acute coryza, head cold,[1] upper respiratory tract infection (URTI)[2] A representation of the molecular surface of one variant of human rhinovirus Specialty Infectious disease, family medicine Symptoms Cough, sore throat, runny nose, fever, muscle aches, fatigue, headache, anorexia[3][4] Complications Usually none, but occasionally otitis media, sinusitis, pneumonia and sepsis can occur[5] Usual onset ~2 days from exposure[6] Duration 1–3 weeks[3][7] Causes Viral (usually rhinovirus)[8] Diagnostic method Based on symptoms Differential diagnosis Allergic rhinitis, bronchitis, bronchiolitis,[9] pertussis, sinusitis[5] Prevention Hand washing, cough etiquette, vitamin C[3][10] Treatment Symptomatic therapy,[3] zinc[11] Medication NSAIDs[12] Frequency 2–3 per year (adults) 6–8 per year (children)[13]

The **common cold**, or simply a **cold**, is a [viral](/source/Virus) [infectious disease](/source/Infectious_disease) of the [upper respiratory tract](/source/Upper_respiratory_tract) that primarily affects the [respiratory mucosa](/source/Respiratory_epithelium) of the [nose](/source/Human_nose), [throat](/source/Throat), [sinuses](/source/Paranasal_sinuses), and [larynx](/source/Larynx).[6][8] Signs and symptoms may appear in as little as two days after exposure to the virus.[6] These may include [coughing](/source/Cough), [sore throat](/source/Sore_throat), [runny nose](/source/Rhinorrhea), [sneezing](/source/Sneeze), [headache](/source/Headache), [fatigue](/source/Fatigue), and [fever](/source/Fever).[3][4] People usually recover in seven to ten days,[3] but some symptoms may last up to three weeks.[7] Occasionally, those with other [health problems](/source/Health_problems) may develop [pneumonia](/source/Pneumonia).[3] When general symptoms are systemic and the disease is severe, the term "flu-like" or "[influenza-like illness](/source/Influenza-like_illness)" can be used instead.[14]

Well over 200 [virus strains](/source/Virus_strain) are implicated in causing the common cold, with [enteroviruses](/source/Enterovirus) (especially [rhinoviruses](/source/Rhinovirus)), [coronaviruses](/source/Coronavirus), and [adenoviruses](/source/Adenoviridae) being the most common.[15] They spread through the air or indirectly through contact with objects in the environment, followed by transfer to the mouth or nose.[3] Risk factors include going to [child care](/source/Child_care) facilities, [not sleeping well](/source/Sleep_deprivation), and [psychological stress](/source/Psychological_stress).[6] The symptoms are mostly due to the body's [immune response](/source/Immune_response) to the infection rather than to [tissue destruction](/source/Tissue_(biology)) by the viruses themselves.[16] The symptoms of [influenza](/source/Influenza) are similar to those of a cold, although usually more severe and less likely to include a [runny nose](/source/Runny_nose).[6][17]

There is no [vaccine](/source/Vaccine) for the common cold.[3] This is due to the rapid mutation and wide variation of viruses that cause the common cold.[18] The primary methods of prevention are [hand washing](/source/Correct_hand_washing_technique); not touching the eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands; and [staying away from sick people](/source/Social_distancing).[3] People are considered contagious as long as the symptoms are still present.[19] Some evidence supports the use of [face masks](/source/Surgical_mask).[10] There is also no [cure](/source/Cure), but the symptoms can be treated.[3] [Zinc](/source/Zinc) may reduce the duration and severity of symptoms if started shortly after the onset of symptoms.[11] [Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs](/source/Nonsteroidal_anti-inflammatory_drug) (NSAIDs) such as [ibuprofen](/source/Ibuprofen) may help with pain.[12] [Antibiotics](/source/Antibiotic), however, should not be used, as all colds are caused by viruses rather than bacteria.[20] There is no good evidence that [cough medicines](/source/Cough_medicine) are effective.[6][21]

The common cold is the most frequent infectious disease in humans.[22] Under normal circumstances, the average adult gets two to three colds a year, while the average child may get six to eight colds a year.[8][13] Infections occur more commonly [during the winter](#Weather).[3] These infections have existed throughout human history.[23]

## Signs and symptoms

The typical symptoms of a cold include [cough](/source/Cough), [runny nose](/source/Runny_nose), [sneezing](/source/Sneeze), [nasal congestion](/source/Nasal_congestion), and a [sore throat](/source/Sore_throat), sometimes accompanied by [muscle ache](/source/Myalgia), [fatigue](/source/Fatigue_(medical)), [headache](/source/Headache), and [loss of appetite](/source/Anorexia_(symptom)).[24] A sore throat is present in about 40% of cases, a cough in about 50%,[8] and muscle aches in about 50%.[4] In adults, a [fever](/source/Fever) is generally not present but it is common in infants and young children.[4] The cough is usually mild compared to that accompanying [influenza](/source/Influenza).[4] While a cough and a fever indicate a higher likelihood of influenza in adults, a great deal of similarity exists between these two conditions.[25] A number of the viruses that cause the common cold may also result in [asymptomatic infections](/source/Asymptomatic).[26][27]

The color of the [mucus](/source/Mucus) or nasal secretion may vary from clear to yellow to green and does not show whether the infection is viral or bacterial.[28]

### Progression

Cold symptoms over time

A cold usually begins with fatigue, a feeling of being [chilled](/source/Chills), sneezing, and a headache, followed in a couple of days by a runny nose and cough.[24] Symptoms may begin within sixteen hours of exposure[29] and typically peak two to four days after onset.[4][30] They usually resolve in seven to ten days, but some can last for up to three weeks.[7] The average duration of cough is eighteen days[31] and in some cases people develop a [post-viral cough](/source/Post-viral_cough) which can linger after the infection is gone.[32] In children, the cough lasts for more than ten days in 35–40% of cases and continues for more than 25 days in 10%.[33]

## Causes

### Viruses

[Coronaviruses](/source/Coronavirus) are a group of viruses known for causing the common cold. They have a halo or crown-like (corona) appearance when viewed under an [electron microscope](/source/Electron_microscope).

The common cold is an infection of the upper [respiratory tract](/source/Respiratory_tract) which can be caused by many different viruses. The most common are [rhinoviruses](/source/Rhinovirus) (up to 40%) which have over 100 known [serotypes](/source/Serotype) (variations).[34] Other common viruses include [coronaviruses](/source/Coronavirus), [adenoviruses](/source/Adenovirus), [enteroviruses](/source/Enterovirus), [parainfluenza](/source/Parainfluenza), and [RSV](/source/Respiratory_syncytial_virus).[35] Frequently, more than one virus is present.[36] In total, more than 200 viral types are associated with colds.[4] The viral cause of some common colds (20–30%) is unknown.[35]

### Transmission

The common cold is transmitted by [airborne droplets](/source/Respiratory_droplet), or contact with nasal secretions or [contaminated objects](/source/Fomites).[8][37] Breathing, talking, or coughing causes an infected individual to release small droplets which carry the virus.[38][39] These droplets can directly infect someone if they are inhaled or come in contact with their eyes or nose.[38][39] The viruses may survive on surfaces for prolonged periods (over 18 hours for rhinoviruses) and can be picked up by people's hands and carried to their eyes or noses to cause infection.[37]

Transmission from animals is considered highly unlikely; an outbreak documented at a British scientific base on [Adelaide Island](/source/Adelaide_Island) after seventeen weeks of isolation was thought to have been caused by transmission from a contaminated object or an asymptomatic human carrier, rather than from the [husky dogs](/source/Siberian_Husky) which were also present at the base.[40]

Transmission is common in daycare and schools due to the proximity of many children with little immunity and poor hygiene.[41] These infections are then brought home to other members of the family.[41] There is no evidence that recirculated air during commercial flight is a method of transmission.[37] People sitting close to each other appear to be at greater risk of infection.[42]

### Other

[Herd immunity](/source/Herd_immunity), generated from previous exposure to cold viruses, plays an important role in limiting viral spread, as seen with younger populations that have greater rates of respiratory infections.[43] Poor immune function is a risk factor for disease.[43][44] [Insufficient sleep](/source/Sleep_deprivation) and [malnutrition](/source/Malnutrition) have been associated with a greater risk of developing infection following rhinovirus exposure; this is believed to be due to their effects on immune function.[45][46] A mother with the common cold cannot transmit it through her breast milk, and by the time she is showing symptoms the baby has already been exposed to the virus.[47] As such it is recommended a breastfeeding mother with a cold continue breastfeeding.[47] It is also recommended that breast feeding be continued when an infant has a cold.[48] In the developed world, breastfeeding may not be protective against the common cold in and of itself.[49]

## Pathophysiology

The common cold is a disease of the [upper respiratory tract](/source/Upper_respiratory_tract).

The symptoms of the common cold are believed to be primarily related to the [immune](/source/Immune) response to the virus.[16] The mechanism of this immune response is virus-specific. For example, the rhinovirus is typically acquired by direct contact; it binds to humans via [ICAM-1 receptors](/source/ICAM-1) and the [CDHR3 receptor](/source/Cadherin_related_family_member_3) through unknown mechanisms to trigger the release of [inflammatory mediators](/source/Inflammatory_mediators).[16] These inflammatory mediators then produce the symptoms.[16] It does not generally cause damage to the nasal [epithelium](/source/Epithelium) (a thin, protective layer of cells on the surface of the nose).[4] The respiratory syncytial virus ([RSV](/source/Human_respiratory_syncytial_virus)), on the other hand, is contracted by direct contact and airborne droplets. It then replicates in the nose and throat before spreading to the [lower respiratory tract](/source/Lower_respiratory_tract).[50] RSV does cause epithelium damage.[50] Human [parainfluenza](/source/Parainfluenza) virus typically results in inflammation of the nose, throat, and [bronchi](/source/Bronchus).[51] In young children, when it affects the [trachea](/source/Vertebrate_trachea), it may produce the symptoms of [croup](/source/Croup), due to the small size of their airways.[51]

## Diagnosis

The distinction between viral [upper respiratory tract infections](/source/Upper_respiratory_tract_infections) is loosely based on the location of symptoms, with the common cold affecting primarily the nose (rhinitis), throat (pharyngitis), and lungs (bronchitis).[8] There can be significant overlap, and more than one area can be affected.[8] Self-diagnosis is frequent.[4] Isolation of the viral agent involved is rarely performed,[52] and it is generally not possible to identify the virus type through symptoms.[4]

## Prevention

The only useful ways to reduce the spread of cold viruses are physical and [engineering](/source/Engineering_controls) measures[10] such as using [correct hand washing technique](/source/Correct_hand_washing_technique), [respirators](/source/Respirator), and improvement of indoor air. In the healthcare environment, gowns and disposable gloves are also used.[10] Droplet precautions cannot reliably protect against [inhalation](/source/Airborne_transmission#Prevention) of common cold–laden aerosols. Instead, airborne precautions such as respirators, [ventilation](/source/Ventilation_(architecture)), [HEPA](/source/HEPA), and [high MERV](/source/Minimum_efficiency_reporting_value) filters are the only reliable protection against cold-laden aerosols.[38] Isolation or [quarantine](/source/Quarantine) is not used as the disease is so widespread and symptoms are non-specific. There is no vaccine to protect against the common cold.[53] [Vaccination](/source/Vaccination) has proven difficult as there are so many viruses involved and because they [mutate](/source/Viral_evolution) rapidly.[10][54] Creation of a broadly effective vaccine is, therefore, highly improbable.[55]

Regular hand washing appears to be effective in reducing the transmission of cold viruses, especially among children.[56] Whether the addition of [antivirals](/source/Antiviral_drug) or [antibacterials](/source/Antibacterial) to normal hand washing provides greater benefit is unknown.[56] Wearing face masks when around people who are infected may be beneficial; however, there is insufficient evidence for maintaining a greater [social distance](/source/Social_distancing).[56] [Zinc](/source/Zinc#Biological_role) supplements do not seem to affect the likelihood of contracting a cold.[57]

## Management

Poster from 1937 encouraging citizens to "consult your physician" for treatment of the common cold

There is no cure for the common cold. Treatment for the common cold primarily involves [medications and other therapies to relieve symptoms](/source/Symptomatic_treatment).[13] Getting plenty of rest, drinking fluids to maintain hydration, and [gargling](/source/Gargling) with warm salt water are reasonable conservative measures.[58] Much of the benefit from symptomatic treatment is, however, attributed to the [placebo effect](/source/Placebo_effect).[59] As of 2010,[\[update\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Common_cold&action=edit) no medications or herbal remedies had been conclusively demonstrated to shorten the duration of infection.[60]

### Symptomatic

Various treatments for the common cold - liquid and pill cold medicine, tea, throat lozenges, and over-the-counter decongestants

Treatments that may help with symptoms include [pain medication](/source/Analgesics) and [medications for fevers](/source/Antipyretic) such as [ibuprofen](/source/Ibuprofen)[12] and [acetaminophen (paracetamol)](/source/Paracetamol).[61] However, it is not clear whether acetaminophen helps with symptoms.[62] It is not known if over-the-counter [cough medications](/source/Cough_medicine) are effective for treating an [acute](/source/Acute_(medicine)) cough.[63] Cough medicines are not recommended for use in children due to a lack of evidence supporting effectiveness and the potential for harm.[64][65] In 2009, Canada restricted the use of [over-the-counter](/source/Over-the-counter) cough and cold medication in children six years and under due to concerns regarding risks and unproven benefits.[64] The misuse of [dextromethorphan](/source/Dextromethorphan) (an over-the-counter cough medicine) has led to its ban in a number of countries.[66] [Intranasal corticosteroids](/source/Corticosteroid) have not been found to be useful.[67]

In adults, short term use of [nasal decongestants](/source/Nasal_decongestants) may have a small benefit.[68] [Antihistamines](/source/Antihistamine) may improve symptoms in the first day or two; however, there is no longer-term benefit and they have adverse effects such as drowsiness.[69] Other decongestants such as [pseudoephedrine](/source/Pseudoephedrine) appear effective in adults.[70][*[needs update](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Manual_of_Style/Dates_and_numbers#Chronological_items)*][68] Combined oral analgesics, antihistaminics, and decongestants are generally effective for older children and adults.[71] [Ipratropium](/source/Ipratropium) nasal spray may reduce the symptoms of a runny nose but has little effect on stuffiness.[72] Ipratropium may also help with coughs in adults.[73] The safety and effectiveness of nasal decongestant use in children is unclear.[68]

Due to lack of studies, it is not known whether increased fluid intake improves symptoms or shortens respiratory illness.[74] As of 2017, heated and humidified air, such as via RhinoTherm, is of unclear benefit.[75] One study has found [chest vapor rub](/source/Chest_rub) to provide some relief of nocturnal cough, congestion, and sleep difficulty.[76]

Some experts advise against [physical exercise](/source/Physical_exercise) if there are symptoms such as fever, widespread [muscle aches](/source/Myalgia), or [fatigue](/source/Fatigue_(medical)).[77][78] It is regarded as safe to perform moderate exercise if the symptoms are confined to the [head](/source/Human_head), including [runny nose](/source/Runny_nose), [nasal congestion](/source/Nasal_congestion), [sneezing](/source/Sneezing), or a minor [sore throat](/source/Sore_throat).[77][78] There is a popular belief that having a hot drink can help with cold symptoms, but evidence to support this is very limited.[79]

### Antibiotics and antivirals

[Antibiotics](/source/Antibiotics) have no effect against viral infections, including the common cold.[80] Due to their side effects, antibiotics cause overall harm but nevertheless are still frequently prescribed.[80][81] The common prescription of antibiotics for colds significantly increases the development of [antibiotic resistance](/source/Antibiotic_resistance).[81] Some of the reasons that antibiotics are so commonly prescribed include people's expectations for them, physicians' desire to help, and the difficulty in excluding complications that may be amenable to antibiotics.[82] There are no effective [antiviral drugs](/source/Antiviral_drug) for the common cold even though some preliminary research has shown benefits.[13][83]

### Zinc

Main article: [Zinc and the common cold](/source/Zinc_and_the_common_cold)

[Zinc supplements](/source/Zinc_compounds) taken as pills may shorten the duration of colds by up to 33% and reduce the severity of symptoms if supplementation begins within 24 hours of the onset of symptoms.[11][84][85][86][87] Some zinc remedies directly applied to the inside of the nose have led to the [loss of the sense of smell](/source/Anosmia).[11][88] A 2017 review did not recommend the use of zinc for the common cold for various reasons;[21] whereas a 2017 and 2018 review both recommended the use of zinc, but also advocated further research on the topic.[85][86]

### Alternative medicine

Main article: [Alternative treatments used for the common cold](/source/Alternative_treatments_used_for_the_common_cold)

While there are many [alternative medicines](/source/Alternative_medicine) and [Chinese herbal medicines](/source/Traditional_Chinese_medicine) supposed to treat the common cold, there is insufficient [scientific evidence](/source/Evidence-based_medicine) to support their use.[13][89]

As of 2015, there is weak evidence to support [nasal irrigation](/source/Nasal_irrigation) with [saline](/source/Saline_(medicine)).[90] There is no firm evidence that [Echinacea](/source/Echinacea) products or [garlic](/source/Garlic) provide any meaningful benefit in treating or preventing colds.[91][92]

### Vitamins C and D

Main article: [Vitamin C and the common cold](/source/Vitamin_C_and_the_common_cold)

Main article: [Vitamin D and respiratory tract infections](/source/Vitamin_D_and_respiratory_tract_infections)

[Vitamin C](/source/Vitamin_C) [supplementation](/source/Dietary_supplement) does not affect the incidence of the common cold, but may reduce its duration if taken on a regular basis.[93] There is no conclusive evidence that [vitamin D](/source/Vitamin_D) supplementation is efficacious in the prevention or treatment of respiratory tract infections.[94]

## Prognosis

The common cold is generally mild and self-limiting with most symptoms generally improving in a week.[8] In children, half of cases resolve in 10 days and 90% in 15 days.[95] Severe complications, if they occur, are usually in the very old, the very young, or those who are [immunosuppressed](/source/Immunosuppressed).[22] Secondary bacterial infections may occur resulting in [sinusitis](/source/Sinusitis), [pharyngitis](/source/Pharyngitis), or an [ear infection](/source/Acute_otitis_media).[96] It is estimated that sinusitis occurs in 8% and ear infection in 30% of cases.[97]

## Epidemiology

The common cold is the most common human disease[22] and affects people all over the globe.[41] Adults typically have two to three infections annually,[8] and children may have six to ten colds a year (and up to twelve colds a year for school children).[13] Rates of symptomatic infections increase in the elderly due to declining immunity.[43] Common cold viruses have an estimated [basic reproduction number](/source/Basic_reproduction_number) ( R 0 {\displaystyle R_{0}} ) 2–3, meaning that each infected person typically infects 2–3 others.[98][99]

### Weather

A common misconception is that one can "catch a cold" merely through prolonged exposure to cold weather.[100] Although it is now known that colds are viral infections, the prevalence of many such viruses are indeed seasonal, occurring more frequently during cold weather.[101] The reason for the seasonality has not been conclusively determined.[102] Possible explanations may include cold temperature-induced changes in the respiratory system,[103] decreased immune response,[104] and low humidity causing an increase in viral transmission rates, perhaps due to dry air allowing small viral droplets to disperse farther and stay in the air longer.[105]

The apparent seasonality may also be due to social factors, such as people spending more time indoors near infected people,[103] and especially children at school.[41][102] Although normal exposure to cold temperatures does not increase one's risk of infection, severe exposure leading to significant reduction of body temperature ([hypothermia](/source/Hypothermia)) may put one at a greater risk for the common cold; although controversial, the majority of evidence suggests that it may increase susceptibility to infection.[104]

## History

A British poster from [World War II](/source/World_War_II) describing the cost of the common cold[106]

While the cause of the common cold was identified in the 1950s, the disease appears to have been with humanity since its early history.[23] Its symptoms and treatment are described in the Egyptian [Ebers papyrus](/source/Ebers_papyrus), the oldest existing medical text, written before the 16th century BCE.[107] The name "cold" came into use in the 16th century, due to the similarity between its symptoms and those of exposure to cold weather.[108]

In the United Kingdom, the [Common Cold Unit](/source/Common_Cold_Unit) (CCU) was set up by the [Medical Research Council](/source/Medical_Research_Council_(UK)) in 1946 and it was where the rhinovirus was discovered in 1956.[109] In the 1970s, the CCU demonstrated that treatment with [interferon](/source/Interferon) during the incubation phase of rhinovirus infection protects somewhat against the disease,[110] but no practical treatment could be developed. The unit was closed in 1989, two years after it completed research of [zinc gluconate lozenges](/source/Zinc_gluconate#Zinc_gluconate_and_the_common_cold) in the prevention and treatment of rhinovirus colds, the only successful treatment in the history of the unit.[111]

## Research directions

[Antivirals](/source/Antiviral_drug) have been tested for effectiveness in the common cold; as of 2009, none had been both found effective and licensed for use.[83] There are trials of the anti-viral drug [pleconaril](/source/Pleconaril) which shows promise against [picornaviruses](/source/Picornavirus) as well as trials of BTA-798.[112] The oral form of pleconaril had safety issues and an aerosol form is being studied.[112] The [genomes](/source/Genome) of all known human rhinovirus strains have been sequenced.[113]

## Societal impact

The economic impact of the common cold is not well understood in much of the world.[97] In the United States, the common cold leads to 75–100 million physician visits annually at a conservative cost estimate of $7.7 billion per year. Americans spend $2.9 billion on over-the-counter drugs and another $400 million on prescription medicines for symptom relief.[114] More than one-third of people who saw a doctor received an antibiotic prescription, which has implications for [antibiotic resistance](/source/Antibiotic_resistance).[114] An estimated 22–189 million school days are missed annually due to a cold. As a result, parents missed 126 million workdays to stay home to care for their children. When added to the 150 million workdays missed by employees who have a cold, the total economic impact of cold-related work loss exceeds $20 billion per year.[58][114] This accounts for 40% of time lost from work in the United States.[115]

## See also

- [Viruses portal](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Portal:Viruses)
- [Medicine portal](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Portal:Medicine)

- [Influenza](/source/Influenza)

- [COVID-19](/source/COVID-19)

- [Norovirus](/source/Norovirus)

## References

**Notes**

1. **[^](#cite_ref-1)** Pramod JR (2008). [*Textbook of Oral Medicine*](https://books.google.com/books?id=8_jWY8wOGEsC&pg=PA336). Jaypee Brothers Publishers. p. 336. [ISBN](/source/ISBN_(identifier)) [978-81-8061-562-7](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-81-8061-562-7). [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20160529132044/https://books.google.com/books?id=8_jWY8wOGEsC&pg=PA336) from the original on 29 May 2016.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-korean_2-0)** Lee H, Kang B, Hong M, Lee HL, Choi JY, Lee JA (July 2020). ["Eunkyosan for the common cold: A PRISMA-compliment systematic review of randomised, controlled trials"](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7402720). *Medicine*. **99** (31) e21415. [doi](/source/Doi_(identifier)):[10.1097/MD.0000000000021415](https://doi.org/10.1097%2FMD.0000000000021415). [PMC](/source/PMC_(identifier)) [7402720](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7402720). [PMID](/source/PMID_(identifier)) [32756141](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32756141).

1. ^ [***a***](#cite_ref-CDC2015_3-0) [***b***](#cite_ref-CDC2015_3-1) [***c***](#cite_ref-CDC2015_3-2) [***d***](#cite_ref-CDC2015_3-3) [***e***](#cite_ref-CDC2015_3-4) [***f***](#cite_ref-CDC2015_3-5) [***g***](#cite_ref-CDC2015_3-6) [***h***](#cite_ref-CDC2015_3-7) [***i***](#cite_ref-CDC2015_3-8) [***j***](#cite_ref-CDC2015_3-9) [***k***](#cite_ref-CDC2015_3-10) [***l***](#cite_ref-CDC2015_3-11) ["Common Colds: Protect Yourself and Others"](https://www.cdc.gov/features/rhinoviruses/). *CDC*. 6 October 2015. [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20160205062000/http://www.cdc.gov/features/rhinoviruses/) from the original on 5 February 2016. Retrieved 4 February 2016.

1. ^ [***a***](#cite_ref-Eccles2005_4-0) [***b***](#cite_ref-Eccles2005_4-1) [***c***](#cite_ref-Eccles2005_4-2) [***d***](#cite_ref-Eccles2005_4-3) [***e***](#cite_ref-Eccles2005_4-4) [***f***](#cite_ref-Eccles2005_4-5) [***g***](#cite_ref-Eccles2005_4-6) [***h***](#cite_ref-Eccles2005_4-7) [***i***](#cite_ref-Eccles2005_4-8) [***j***](#cite_ref-Eccles2005_4-9) Eccles R (November 2005). ["Understanding the symptoms of the common cold and influenza"](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7185637). *The Lancet. Infectious Diseases*. **5** (11): 718–25. [doi](/source/Doi_(identifier)):[10.1016/S1473-3099(05)70270-X](https://doi.org/10.1016%2FS1473-3099%2805%2970270-X). [PMC](/source/PMC_(identifier)) [7185637](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7185637). [PMID](/source/PMID_(identifier)) [16253889](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16253889).

1. ^ [***a***](#cite_ref-Ben2014_5-0) [***b***](#cite_ref-Ben2014_5-1) Bennett JE, Dolin R, Blaser MJ (2014). [*Principles and Practice of Infectious Diseases*](https://books.google.com/books?id=BseNCgAAQBAJ&pg=PA750). Elsevier Health Sciences. p. 750. [ISBN](/source/ISBN_(identifier)) [978-1-4557-4801-3](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-1-4557-4801-3). [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20170908184148/https://books.google.com/books?id=BseNCgAAQBAJ&pg=PA750) from the original on 8 September 2017.

1. ^ [***a***](#cite_ref-CMAJ2014_6-0) [***b***](#cite_ref-CMAJ2014_6-1) [***c***](#cite_ref-CMAJ2014_6-2) [***d***](#cite_ref-CMAJ2014_6-3) [***e***](#cite_ref-CMAJ2014_6-4) [***f***](#cite_ref-CMAJ2014_6-5) Allan GM, Arroll B (February 2014). ["Prevention and treatment of the common cold: making sense of the evidence"](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3928210). *CMAJ*. **186** (3): 190–9. [doi](/source/Doi_(identifier)):[10.1503/cmaj.121442](https://doi.org/10.1503%2Fcmaj.121442). [PMC](/source/PMC_(identifier)) [3928210](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3928210). [PMID](/source/PMID_(identifier)) [24468694](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24468694).

1. ^ [***a***](#cite_ref-Heik2003_7-0) [***b***](#cite_ref-Heik2003_7-1) [***c***](#cite_ref-Heik2003_7-2) Heikkinen T, Järvinen A (January 2003). ["The common cold"](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7112468). *Lancet*. **361** (9351): 51–9. [Bibcode](/source/Bibcode_(identifier)):[2003Lanc..361...51H](https://ui.adsabs.harvard.edu/abs/2003Lanc..361...51H). [doi](/source/Doi_(identifier)):[10.1016/S0140-6736(03)12162-9](https://doi.org/10.1016%2FS0140-6736%2803%2912162-9). [PMC](/source/PMC_(identifier)) [7112468](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7112468). [PMID](/source/PMID_(identifier)) [12517470](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12517470).

1. ^ [***a***](#cite_ref-CE11_8-0) [***b***](#cite_ref-CE11_8-1) [***c***](#cite_ref-CE11_8-2) [***d***](#cite_ref-CE11_8-3) [***e***](#cite_ref-CE11_8-4) [***f***](#cite_ref-CE11_8-5) [***g***](#cite_ref-CE11_8-6) [***h***](#cite_ref-CE11_8-7) [***i***](#cite_ref-CE11_8-8) Arroll B (March 2011). ["Common cold"](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3275147). *BMJ Clinical Evidence*. **2011** (3): 1510. [PMC](/source/PMC_(identifier)) [3275147](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3275147). [PMID](/source/PMID_(identifier)) [21406124](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21406124). Common colds are defined as upper respiratory tract infections that affect the predominantly nasal part of the respiratory mucosa

1. **[^](#cite_ref-9)** ["Bronchiolitis: Symptoms and Causes"](https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/bronchiolitis/symptoms-causes/syc-20351565). *[Mayo Clinic](/source/Mayo_Clinic)*. [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20220503002225/https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/bronchiolitis/symptoms-causes/syc-20351565) from the original on 3 May 2022. Retrieved 3 May 2022.

1. ^ [***a***](#cite_ref-E209_10-0) [***b***](#cite_ref-E209_10-1) [***c***](#cite_ref-E209_10-2) [***d***](#cite_ref-E209_10-3) [***e***](#cite_ref-E209_10-4) Eccles p. 209

1. ^ [***a***](#cite_ref-NIH2016Zinc_11-0) [***b***](#cite_ref-NIH2016Zinc_11-1) [***c***](#cite_ref-NIH2016Zinc_11-2) [***d***](#cite_ref-NIH2016Zinc_11-3) ["Zinc – Fact Sheet for Health Professionals"](https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Zinc-HealthProfessional/). Office of Dietary Supplements, US National Institutes of Health. 10 July 2019. [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20210325180015/https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Zinc-HealthProfessional/) from the original on 25 March 2021. Retrieved 27 December 2019. Although studies examining the effect of zinc treatment on cold symptoms have had somewhat conflicting results, overall zinc appears to be beneficial under certain circumstances.... In September of 2007, Caruso and colleagues published a structured review of the effects of zinc lozenges, nasal sprays, and nasal gels on the common cold [69]. Of the 14 randomized, placebo-controlled studies included, 7 (5 using zinc lozenges, 2 using a nasal gel) showed that the zinc treatment had a beneficial effect and 7 (5 using zinc lozenges, 1 using a nasal spray, and 1 using lozenges and a nasal spray) showed no effect. More recently, a Cochrane review concluded that "zinc (lozenges or syrup) is beneficial in reducing the duration and severity of the common cold in healthy people, when taken within 24 hours of onset of symptoms" [73]. The author of another review completed in 2004 also concluded that zinc can reduce the duration and severity of cold symptoms [68]. However, more research is needed to determine the optimal dosage, zinc formulation and duration of treatment before a general recommendation for zinc in the treatment of the common cold can be made [73]. As previously noted, the safety of intranasal zinc has been called into question because of numerous reports of anosmia (loss of smell), in some cases long-lasting or permanent, from the use of zinc-containing nasal gels or sprays [17–19].

1. ^ [***a***](#cite_ref-Kim2015_12-0) [***b***](#cite_ref-Kim2015_12-1) [***c***](#cite_ref-Kim2015_12-2) Kim SY, Chang YJ, Cho HM, Hwang YW, Moon YS (September 2015). ["Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for the common cold"](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10040208). *The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews*. **2015** (9) CD006362. [doi](/source/Doi_(identifier)):[10.1002/14651858.CD006362.pub4](https://doi.org/10.1002%2F14651858.CD006362.pub4). [PMC](/source/PMC_(identifier)) [10040208](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10040208). [PMID](/source/PMID_(identifier)) [26387658](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26387658).

1. ^ [***a***](#cite_ref-AFP07_13-0) [***b***](#cite_ref-AFP07_13-1) [***c***](#cite_ref-AFP07_13-2) [***d***](#cite_ref-AFP07_13-3) [***e***](#cite_ref-AFP07_13-4) [***f***](#cite_ref-AFP07_13-5) Simasek M, Blandino DA (February 2007). ["Treatment of the common cold"](http://www.aafp.org/afp/20070215/515.html). *American Family Physician*. **75** (4): 515–20. [PMID](/source/PMID_(identifier)) [17323712](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17323712). [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20070926230125/http://www.aafp.org/afp/20070215/515.html) from the original on 26 September 2007.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-14)** Eccles R (2023). ["Common cold"](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10324571). *Frontiers in Allergy*. **4** 1224988. [doi](/source/Doi_(identifier)):[10.3389/FALGY.2023.1224988](https://doi.org/10.3389%2FFALGY.2023.1224988). [PMC](/source/PMC_(identifier)) [10324571](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10324571). [PMID](/source/PMID_(identifier)) [37426629](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37426629).

1. **[^](#cite_ref-15)** ["Common Cold"](https://www.cdc.gov/getsmart/community/for-patients/common-illnesses/colds.html). [Centers for Disease Control and Prevention](/source/Centers_for_Disease_Control_and_Prevention). [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20160201101449/http://www.cdc.gov/getsmart/community/for-patients/common-illnesses/colds.html) from the original on 1 February 2016. Retrieved 27 January 2021.

1. ^ [***a***](#cite_ref-E112_16-0) [***b***](#cite_ref-E112_16-1) [***c***](#cite_ref-E112_16-2) [***d***](#cite_ref-E112_16-3) Eccles p. 112

1. **[^](#cite_ref-17)** ["Cold Versus Flu"](https://web.archive.org/web/20170106173600/https://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/qa/coldflu.htm). 11 August 2016. Archived from [the original](https://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/qa/coldflu.htm) on 6 January 2017. Retrieved 5 January 2017.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-18)** ["Colds: How to Prevent Them"](https://www.yalemedicine.org/conditions/colds#:~:text=There%20is%20no%20cure%20for%20colds;%20there%20only%20is%20treatment,Foxman.). *Yale Medicine*. Retrieved 21 November 2024.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-19)** ["Common cold"](https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/common-cold/). *nhs.uk*. 18 October 2017. Retrieved 21 November 2024.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-20)** Harris AM, Hicks LA, Qaseem A (March 2016). "Appropriate Antibiotic Use for Acute Respiratory Tract Infection in Adults: Advice for High-Value Care From the American College of Physicians and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention". *Annals of Internal Medicine*. **164** (6): 425–34. [doi](/source/Doi_(identifier)):[10.7326/M15-1840](https://doi.org/10.7326%2FM15-1840). [PMID](/source/PMID_(identifier)) [26785402](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26785402). [S2CID](/source/S2CID_(identifier)) [746771](https://api.semanticscholar.org/CorpusID:746771).

1. ^ [***a***](#cite_ref-Mal2017_21-0) [***b***](#cite_ref-Mal2017_21-1) Malesker MA, Callahan-Lyon P, Ireland B, Irwin RS (November 2017). ["Pharmacologic and Nonpharmacologic Treatment for Acute Cough Associated With the Common Cold: CHEST Expert Panel Report"](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6026258). *Chest*. **152** (5): 1021–1037. [doi](/source/Doi_(identifier)):[10.1016/j.chest.2017.08.009](https://doi.org/10.1016%2Fj.chest.2017.08.009). [PMC](/source/PMC_(identifier)) [6026258](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6026258). [PMID](/source/PMID_(identifier)) [28837801](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28837801). A suggestion for the use of zinc lozenges in healthy adults with cough due to common cold was considered by the expert panel. However, due to weak evidence, the potential side effects of zinc, and the relatively benign and common nature of the condition being treated, the panel did not approve inclusion of this suggestion.

1. ^ [***a***](#cite_ref-E1_22-0) [***b***](#cite_ref-E1_22-1) [***c***](#cite_ref-E1_22-2) Eccles p. 1

1. ^ [***a***](#cite_ref-Eccles_p._3_23-0) [***b***](#cite_ref-Eccles_p._3_23-1) Eccles R, Weber O (2009). [*Common cold*](https://books.google.com/books?id=rRIdiGE42IEC&pg=PA3). Basel: Birkhäuser. p. 3. [ISBN](/source/ISBN_(identifier)) [978-3-7643-9894-1](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-3-7643-9894-1). [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20160508020931/https://books.google.com/books?id=rRIdiGE42IEC&pg=PA3) from the original on 8 May 2016.

1. ^ [***a***](#cite_ref-E24_24-0) [***b***](#cite_ref-E24_24-1) Eccles p. 24

1. **[^](#cite_ref-25)** Eccles p. 26

1. **[^](#cite_ref-26)** Eccles p. 129

1. **[^](#cite_ref-27)** Eccles p. 50

1. **[^](#cite_ref-28)** Eccles p. 30

1. **[^](#cite_ref-29)** Helms RA, ed. (2006). [*Textbook of therapeutics: drug and disease management*](https://books.google.com/books?id=aVmRWrknaWgC&pg=PA1882) (8. ed.). Philadelphia, Pa. [u.a.]: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins. p. 1882. [ISBN](/source/ISBN_(identifier)) [978-0-7817-5734-8](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-0-7817-5734-8). [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20160430175008/https://books.google.com/books?id=aVmRWrknaWgC&pg=PA1882) from the original on 30 April 2016.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-30)** Turner RB, Hayden FG (2003). ["Rhinovirus"](https://books.google.com/books?id=AltZnmbIhbwC&pg=PA111). In Rübsamen-Waigmann H, et al. (eds.). *Viral Infections and Treatment*. New York: CRC Press. p. 111. [ISBN](/source/ISBN_(identifier)) [978-0-8247-4247-8](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-0-8247-4247-8). [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20160504193824/https://books.google.com/books?id=AltZnmbIhbwC&pg=PA111) from the original on 4 May 2016.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-pmid23319500_31-0)** Ebell MH, Lundgren J, Youngpairoj S (2013). ["How long does a cough last? Comparing patients' expectations with data from a systematic review of the literature"](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3596033). *Annals of Family Medicine*. **11** (1): 5–13. [doi](/source/Doi_(identifier)):[10.1370/afm.1430](https://doi.org/10.1370%2Fafm.1430). [PMC](/source/PMC_(identifier)) [3596033](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3596033). [PMID](/source/PMID_(identifier)) [23319500](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23319500).

1. **[^](#cite_ref-pmid21198555_32-0)** Dicpinigaitis PV (May 2011). ["Cough: an unmet clinical need"](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3085873). *British Journal of Pharmacology*. **163** (1): 116–24. [doi](/source/Doi_(identifier)):[10.1111/j.1476-5381.2010.01198.x](https://doi.org/10.1111%2Fj.1476-5381.2010.01198.x). [PMC](/source/PMC_(identifier)) [3085873](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3085873). [PMID](/source/PMID_(identifier)) [21198555](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21198555).

1. **[^](#cite_ref-33)** Goldsobel AB, Chipps BE (March 2010). "Cough in the pediatric population". *The Journal of Pediatrics*. **156** (3): 352–8. [doi](/source/Doi_(identifier)):[10.1016/j.jpeds.2009.12.004](https://doi.org/10.1016%2Fj.jpeds.2009.12.004). [PMID](/source/PMID_(identifier)) [20176183](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20176183).

1. **[^](#cite_ref-34)** ["Common Cold (Viral Rhinitis)"](https://www.health.harvard.edu/a_to_z/common-cold-viral-rhinitis-a-to-z). *Harvard Health*. 6 February 2026. Retrieved 27 March 2026.

1. ^ [***a***](#cite_ref-ebm_35-0) [***b***](#cite_ref-ebm_35-1) Janicki-Deverts D, Crittenden CN (2020). "Common Cold: Cause". In Gellman MD (ed.). *Encyclopedia of Behavioral Medicine* (2nd ed.). Springer. p. 504. [doi](/source/Doi_(identifier)):[10.1007/978-3-030-39903-0_795](https://doi.org/10.1007%2F978-3-030-39903-0_795). [ISBN](/source/ISBN_(identifier)) [978-3-030-39901-6](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-3-030-39901-6). [S2CID](/source/S2CID_(identifier)) [242944824](https://api.semanticscholar.org/CorpusID:242944824).

1. **[^](#cite_ref-36)** Eccles p. 107

1. ^ [***a***](#cite_ref-Cold197_37-0) [***b***](#cite_ref-Cold197_37-1) [***c***](#cite_ref-Cold197_37-2) Eccles R, Weber O (2009). [*Common cold*](https://books.google.com/books?id=rRIdiGE42IEC&pg=PA197) (Online-Ausg. ed.). Basel: Birkhäuser. p. 197. [ISBN](/source/ISBN_(identifier)) [978-3-7643-9894-1](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-3-7643-9894-1). [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20160502212944/https://books.google.com/books?id=rRIdiGE42IEC&pg=PA197) from the original on 2 May 2016.

1. ^ [***a***](#cite_ref-prather_jimenez_marr_1_38-0) [***b***](#cite_ref-prather_jimenez_marr_1_38-1) [***c***](#cite_ref-prather_jimenez_marr_1_38-2) Wang CC, Prather KA, Sznitman J, Jimenez JL, Lakdawala SS, Tufekci Z, Marr LC (27 August 2021). ["Airborne transmission of respiratory viruses"](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8721651). *Science*. **373** (6558) eabd9149. [doi](/source/Doi_(identifier)):[10.1126/science.abd9149](https://doi.org/10.1126%2Fscience.abd9149). [PMC](/source/PMC_(identifier)) [8721651](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8721651). [PMID](/source/PMID_(identifier)) [34446582](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34446582).

1. ^ [***a***](#cite_ref-Andrup2023_39-0) [***b***](#cite_ref-Andrup2023_39-1) Andrup L, Krogfelt KA, Hansen KS, Madsen AM (August 2023). ["Transmission route of rhinovirus - the causative agent for common cold. A systematic review"](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36535318/). *American Journal of Infection Control*. **51** (8): 938–957. [doi](/source/Doi_(identifier)):[10.1016/j.ajic.2022.12.005](https://doi.org/10.1016%2Fj.ajic.2022.12.005). [ISSN](/source/ISSN_(identifier)) [1527-3296](https://search.worldcat.org/issn/1527-3296).

1. **[^](#cite_ref-Allen1973_40-0)** Allen TR, Bradburne AF, Stott EJ, Goodwin CS, [Tyrrell DA](/source/David_Tyrrell_(physician)) (December 1973). ["An outbreak of common colds at an Antarctic base after seventeen weeks of complete isolation"](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2130424). *The Journal of Hygiene*. **71** (4): 657–67. [doi](/source/Doi_(identifier)):[10.1017/s0022172400022920](https://doi.org/10.1017%2Fs0022172400022920). [PMC](/source/PMC_(identifier)) [2130424](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2130424). [PMID](/source/PMID_(identifier)) [4520509](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/4520509).

1. ^ [***a***](#cite_ref-Text2007_41-0) [***b***](#cite_ref-Text2007_41-1) [***c***](#cite_ref-Text2007_41-2) [***d***](#cite_ref-Text2007_41-3) Papadopoulos NG, Xatzipsaltis M, Johnston SL (2009). ["Rhinoviruses"](https://books.google.com/books?id=4il2mF7JG1sC&pg=PR3). In Zuckerman AJ, et al. (eds.). *Principles and Practice of Clinical Virology* (6th ed.). John Wiley & Sons. p. 496. [ISBN](/source/ISBN_(identifier)) [978-0-470-74139-9](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-0-470-74139-9). [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20160603221154/https://books.google.com/books?id=OgbcUWpUCXsC&pg=PA496) from the original on 3 June 2016.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-E211_42-0)** Eccles pp. 211, 215

1. ^ [***a***](#cite_ref-E78_43-0) [***b***](#cite_ref-E78_43-1) [***c***](#cite_ref-E78_43-2) Eccles p. 78

1. **[^](#cite_ref-44)** Eccles p. 166

1. **[^](#cite_ref-45)** Cohen S, Doyle WJ, Alper CM, Janicki-Deverts D, Turner RB (January 2009). ["Sleep habits and susceptibility to the common cold"](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2629403). *Archives of Internal Medicine*. **169** (1): 62–7. [doi](/source/Doi_(identifier)):[10.1001/archinternmed.2008.505](https://doi.org/10.1001%2Farchinternmed.2008.505). [PMC](/source/PMC_(identifier)) [2629403](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2629403). [PMID](/source/PMID_(identifier)) [19139325](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19139325).

1. **[^](#cite_ref-46)** Eccles pp. 160–65

1. ^ [***a***](#cite_ref-APILAM_47-0) [***b***](#cite_ref-APILAM_47-1) ["Resfriado, Infección Respiratoria, Constipado, Resfrío: Nivel de riesgo para la lactancia según e-lactancia.org"](https://e-lactancia.org/breastfeeding/common-cold-respiratory-infection-catarrh/synonym/). *e-lactancia.org*. APILAM. 7 September 2025. Retrieved 23 March 2026.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-48)** Lawrence RA, Lawrence RM (2010). [*Breastfeeding: A guide for the medical profession*](https://books.google.com/books?id=c4BnozBW3EMC&pg=PA478) (7th ed.). Maryland Heights, Mo.: Mosby/Elsevier. p. 478. [ISBN](/source/ISBN_(identifier)) [978-1-4377-3590-1](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-1-4377-3590-1). [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20160617002059/https://books.google.com/books?id=c4BnozBW3EMC&pg=PA478) from the original on 17 June 2016.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-NelsonWilliams2007_49-0)** Nelson KE, Williams CM (2007). [*Infectious Disease Epidemiology: Theory and Practice*](https://books.google.com/books?id=o_j-G4zJ4cQC&pg=PA724) (2nd ed.). Jones & Bartlett Learning. pp. 724–. [ISBN](/source/ISBN_(identifier)) [978-0-7637-2879-3](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-0-7637-2879-3). [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20160520134003/https://books.google.com/books?id=o_j-G4zJ4cQC&pg=PA724) from the original on 20 May 2016.

1. ^ [***a***](#cite_ref-E116_50-0) [***b***](#cite_ref-E116_50-1) Eccles p. 116

1. ^ [***a***](#cite_ref-E122_51-0) [***b***](#cite_ref-E122_51-1) Eccles p. 122

1. **[^](#cite_ref-E51_52-0)** Eccles pp. 51–52

1. **[^](#cite_ref-53)** CDC (11 February 2019). ["Common Colds"](https://www.cdc.gov/features/rhinoviruses/index.html). *Centers for Disease Control and Prevention*. [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20200927120520/https://www.cdc.gov/features/rhinoviruses/index.html) from the original on 27 September 2020. Retrieved 18 September 2020.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-54)** Montesinos-Guevara C, Buitrago-Garcia D, Felix ML, Guerra CV, Hidalgo R, Martinez-Zapata MJ, Simancas-Racines D (14 December 2022). ["Vaccines for the common cold"](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9749450). *The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews*. **2022** (12) CD002190. [doi](/source/Doi_(identifier)):[10.1002/14651858.CD002190.pub6](https://doi.org/10.1002%2F14651858.CD002190.pub6). [PMC](/source/PMC_(identifier)) [9749450](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9749450). [PMID](/source/PMID_(identifier)) [36515550](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36515550).

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1. ^ [***a***](#cite_ref-:0_56-0) [***b***](#cite_ref-:0_56-1) [***c***](#cite_ref-:0_56-2) Jefferson T, Dooley L, Ferroni E, Al-Ansary LA, van Driel ML, Bawazeer GA, Jones MA, Hoffmann TC, Clark J, Beller EM, Glasziou PP, Conly JM (30 January 2023). ["Physical interventions to interrupt or reduce the spread of respiratory viruses"](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9885521). *The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews*. **1** (1) CD006207. [doi](/source/Doi_(identifier)):[10.1002/14651858.CD006207.pub6](https://doi.org/10.1002%2F14651858.CD006207.pub6). [PMC](/source/PMC_(identifier)) [9885521](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9885521). [PMID](/source/PMID_(identifier)) [36715243](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36715243).

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1. **[^](#cite_ref-59)** Eccles p. 261

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1. **[^](#cite_ref-66)** Eccles p. 246

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1. **[^](#cite_ref-70)** Taverner D, Latte J (January 2007). Latte GJ (ed.). "Nasal decongestants for the common cold". *The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews* (1) CD001953. [doi](/source/Doi_(identifier)):[10.1002/14651858.CD001953.pub3](https://doi.org/10.1002%2F14651858.CD001953.pub3). [PMID](/source/PMID_(identifier)) [17253470](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17253470).

1. **[^](#cite_ref-71)** De Sutter AI, Eriksson L, van Driel ML (21 January 2022). ["Oral antihistamine-decongestant-analgesic combinations for the common cold"](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8780136). *The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews*. **1** (1) CD004976. [doi](/source/Doi_(identifier)):[10.1002/14651858.CD004976.pub4](https://doi.org/10.1002%2F14651858.CD004976.pub4). [PMC](/source/PMC_(identifier)) [8780136](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8780136). [PMID](/source/PMID_(identifier)) [35060618](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35060618).

1. **[^](#cite_ref-72)** AlBalawi ZH, Othman SS, Alfaleh K (June 2013). ["Intranasal ipratropium bromide for the common cold"](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6492479). *The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews*. **2013** (6) CD008231. [doi](/source/Doi_(identifier)):[10.1002/14651858.CD008231.pub3](https://doi.org/10.1002%2F14651858.CD008231.pub3). [PMC](/source/PMC_(identifier)) [6492479](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6492479). [PMID](/source/PMID_(identifier)) [23784858](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23784858).

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1. **[^](#cite_ref-74)** Guppy MP, Mickan SM, Del Mar CB, Thorning S, Rack A (February 2011). Guppy MP (ed.). ["Advising patients to increase fluid intake for treating acute respiratory infections"](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7197045). *The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews*. **2011** (2) CD004419. [doi](/source/Doi_(identifier)):[10.1002/14651858.CD004419.pub3](https://doi.org/10.1002%2F14651858.CD004419.pub3). [PMC](/source/PMC_(identifier)) [7197045](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7197045). [PMID](/source/PMID_(identifier)) [21328268](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21328268).

1. **[^](#cite_ref-75)** Singh M, Singh M, Jaiswal N, Chauhan A (August 2017). ["Heated, humidified air for the common cold"](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6483632). *The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews*. **2017** (8) CD001728. [doi](/source/Doi_(identifier)):[10.1002/14651858.CD001728.pub6](https://doi.org/10.1002%2F14651858.CD001728.pub6). [PMC](/source/PMC_(identifier)) [6483632](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6483632). [PMID](/source/PMID_(identifier)) [28849871](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28849871).

1. **[^](#cite_ref-pmid21059712_76-0)** Paul IM, Beiler JS, King TS, Clapp ER, Vallati J, Berlin CM (December 2010). ["Vapor rub, petrolatum, and no treatment for children with nocturnal cough and cold symptoms"](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3600823). *Pediatrics*. **126** (6): 1092–9. [doi](/source/Doi_(identifier)):[10.1542/peds.2010-1601](https://doi.org/10.1542%2Fpeds.2010-1601). [PMC](/source/PMC_(identifier)) [3600823](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3600823). [PMID](/source/PMID_(identifier)) [21059712](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21059712).

1. ^ [***a***](#cite_ref-mayo_77-0) [***b***](#cite_ref-mayo_77-1) Laskowski ER (9 February 2017). ["Is it OK to exercise if I have a cold?"](http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/fitness/expert-answers/exercise/faq-20058494). *[Mayo Clinic](/source/Mayo_Clinic)*. [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20170719092604/http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/fitness/expert-answers/exercise/faq-20058494) from the original on 19 July 2017. Retrieved 4 July 2017.

1. ^ [***a***](#cite_ref-acsm_78-0) [***b***](#cite_ref-acsm_78-1) ["Clearing the Air on Exercise and the Common Cold"](https://web.archive.org/web/20170722112319/http://acsm.org/about-acsm/media-room/acsm-in-the-news/2011/08/01/clearing-the-air-on-exercise-and-the-common-cold). *[American College of Sports Medicine](/source/American_College_of_Sports_Medicine)*. Archived from [the original](http://www.acsm.org/about-acsm/media-room/acsm-in-the-news/2011/08/01/clearing-the-air-on-exercise-and-the-common-cold) on 22 July 2017. Retrieved 4 July 2017.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-79)** ["Hot drinks ease cold and flu"](https://web.archive.org/web/20201125101914/https://www.nhs.uk/news/food-and-diet/hot-drinks-ease-cold-and-flu/). National Health Service. 10 December 2008. Archived from [the original](https://www.nhs.uk/news/food-and-diet/hot-drinks-ease-cold-and-flu/) on 25 November 2020. Retrieved 27 January 2021.

1. ^ [***a***](#cite_ref-:1_80-0) [***b***](#cite_ref-:1_80-1) Kenealy T, Arroll B (24 November 2025). "Antibiotics for the common cold and acute purulent rhinitis". *The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews*. **11** (11) CD000247. [doi](/source/Doi_(identifier)):[10.1002/14651858.CD000247.pub4](https://doi.org/10.1002%2F14651858.CD000247.pub4). [ISSN](/source/ISSN_(identifier)) [1469-493X](https://search.worldcat.org/issn/1469-493X). [PMC](/source/PMC_(identifier)) 12642827. [PMID](/source/PMID_(identifier)) [41277585](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41277585).

1. ^ [***a***](#cite_ref-StatCold_81-0) [***b***](#cite_ref-StatCold_81-1) Tobin EH, Thomas M, Bomar PA (2026). "Upper Respiratory Tract Infections With Focus on The Common Cold". [*StatPearls*](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK532961/). StatPearls Publishing.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-82)** Eccles p. 234

1. ^ [***a***](#cite_ref-EcclesPg_b_83-0) [***b***](#cite_ref-EcclesPg_b_83-1) Eccles p. 218

1. **[^](#cite_ref-Cochrane2013_84-0)** Singh M, Das RR (June 2013). Singh M (ed.). "Zinc for the common cold". *The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews* (6) CD001364. [doi](/source/Doi_(identifier)):[10.1002/14651858.CD001364.pub4](https://doi.org/10.1002%2F14651858.CD001364.pub4). [PMID](/source/PMID_(identifier)) [23775705](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23775705). (Retracted, see [doi](/source/Doi_(identifier)):[10.1002/14651858.CD001364.pub5](https://doi.org/10.1002%2F14651858.CD001364.pub5), [PMID](/source/PMID_(identifier)) [25924708](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25924708), [*Retraction Watch*](http://retractionwatch.com/2015/10/07/concerns-cause-cochrane-to-withdraw-review-on-zinc-for-colds/))

1. ^ [***a***](#cite_ref-Zinc_CC_2018_SystRev_85-0) [***b***](#cite_ref-Zinc_CC_2018_SystRev_85-1) Rondanelli M, Miccono A, Lamburghini S, Avanzato I, Riva A, Allegrini P, et al. (2018). ["Self-Care for Common Colds: The Pivotal Role of Vitamin D, Vitamin C, Zinc, and *Echinacea* in Three Main Immune Interactive Clusters (Physical Barriers, Innate and Adaptive Immunity) Involved during an Episode of Common Colds-Practical Advice on Dosages and on the Time to Take These Nutrients/Botanicals in order to Prevent or Treat Common Colds"](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5949172). *Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine*. **2018** 5813095. [doi](/source/Doi_(identifier)):[10.1155/2018/5813095](https://doi.org/10.1155%2F2018%2F5813095). [PMC](/source/PMC_(identifier)) [5949172](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5949172). [PMID](/source/PMID_(identifier)) [29853961](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29853961). Considering zinc, the supplementation may shorten the duration of colds by approximately 33%. CC patients may be instructed to try zinc within 24 hours of symptoms onset.

1. ^ [***a***](#cite_ref-Hemila_2017a_86-0) [***b***](#cite_ref-Hemila_2017a_86-1) Hemilä H, Fitzgerald JT, Petrus EJ, Prasad A (2017). ["Zinc Acetate Lozenges May Improve the Recovery Rate of Common Cold Patients: An Individual Patient Data Meta-Analysis"](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5410113). *Open Forum Infectious Diseases*. **4** (2) ofx059. [doi](/source/Doi_(identifier)):[10.1093/ofid/ofx059](https://doi.org/10.1093%2Fofid%2Fofx059). [PMC](/source/PMC_(identifier)) [5410113](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5410113). [PMID](/source/PMID_(identifier)) [28480298](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28480298). The 3-fold increase in the rate of recovery from the common cold is a clinically important effect. The optimal formulation of zinc lozenges and an ideal frequency of their administration should be examined. Given the evidence of efficacy, common cold patients may be instructed to try zinc acetate lozenges within 24 hours of symptoms onset.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-Hemila_2016_87-0)** Hemilä H, Petrus EJ, Fitzgerald JT, Prasad A (November 2016). ["Zinc acetate lozenges for treating the common cold: an individual patient data meta-analysis"](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5061795). *British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology*. **82** (5): 1393–1398. [doi](/source/Doi_(identifier)):[10.1111/bcp.13057](https://doi.org/10.1111%2Fbcp.13057). [PMC](/source/PMC_(identifier)) [5061795](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5061795). [PMID](/source/PMID_(identifier)) [27378206](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27378206).

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1. **[^](#cite_ref-89)** Wu T, Zhang J, Qiu Y, Xie L, Liu GJ (January 2007). ["Chinese medicinal herbs for the common cold"](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12547859). *The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews*. **2010** (1) CD004782. [doi](/source/Doi_(identifier)):[10.1002/14651858.CD004782.pub2](https://doi.org/10.1002%2F14651858.CD004782.pub2). [PMC](/source/PMC_(identifier)) [12547859](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12547859). [PMID](/source/PMID_(identifier)) [17253524](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17253524).

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1. **[^](#cite_ref-92)** Lissiman E, Bhasale AL, Cohen M (November 2014). Lissiman E (ed.). ["Garlic for the common cold"](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6465033). *The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews*. **11** (11) CD006206. [doi](/source/Doi_(identifier)):[10.1002/14651858.CD006206.pub4](https://doi.org/10.1002%2F14651858.CD006206.pub4). [PMC](/source/PMC_(identifier)) [6465033](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6465033). [PMID](/source/PMID_(identifier)) [25386977](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25386977).

1. **[^](#cite_ref-Hem2013_93-0)** Hemilä H, Chalker E (January 2013). ["Vitamin C for preventing and treating the common cold"](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1160577). *The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews*. **1** (1) CD000980. [doi](/source/Doi_(identifier)):[10.1002/14651858.CD000980.pub4](https://doi.org/10.1002%2F14651858.CD000980.pub4). [PMC](/source/PMC_(identifier)) [1160577](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1160577). [PMID](/source/PMID_(identifier)) [23440782](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23440782).

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1. **[^](#cite_ref-96)** Eccles p. 76

1. ^ [***a***](#cite_ref-EcclesPg_a_97-0) [***b***](#cite_ref-EcclesPg_a_97-1) Eccles p. 90

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**Bibliography**

- Eccles R, Weber O, eds. (2009). [*Common Cold*](https://books.google.com/books?id=rRIdiGE42IEC) (Illustrated ed.). Springer Science & Business Media. [ISBN](/source/ISBN_(identifier)) [978-3-7643-9912-2](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-3-7643-9912-2).

## External links

Wikimedia Commons has media related to [Common cold](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Category:Common_cold).

Classification D ICD-10: J00 ICD-9-CM: 460 MeSH: D003139 DiseasesDB: 31088 SNOMED CT: 82272006 External resources MedlinePlus: 000678 Patient UK: Common cold

v t e Common cold Viruses Adenovirus Coronavirus Enterovirus Rhinovirus Symptoms Cough Fatigue Fever Headache Loss of appetite Malaise Muscle aches Nasal congestion Rhinorrhea Sneezing Sore throat Weakness Complications Acute bronchitis Bronchiolitis Croup Otitis media Pharyngitis Pneumonia Sinusitis Strep throat Drugs Antiviral drugs Cold medicine

v t e Infectious diseases – viral systemic diseases Oncovirus DNA virus HBV Hepatocellular carcinoma HPV Cervical cancer Anal cancer Penile cancer Vulvar cancer Vaginal cancer Oropharyngeal cancer KSHV Kaposi's sarcoma EBV Nasopharyngeal carcinoma Burkitt's lymphoma Hodgkin lymphoma Follicular dendritic cell sarcoma Extranodal NK/T-cell lymphoma, nasal type MCPyV Merkel-cell carcinoma RNA virus HCV Hepatocellular carcinoma Splenic marginal zone lymphoma HTLV-I Adult T-cell leukemia/lymphoma Immune disorders HIV AIDS Central nervous system Encephalitis/ meningitis DNA virus Human polyomavirus 2 Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy HSV Herpes simplex encephalitis Herpes meningitis VZV Herpes meningitis RNA virus MeV Subacute sclerosing panencephalitis LCV Lymphocytic choriomeningitis Arbovirus encephalitis Orthomyxoviridae (probable) Encephalitis lethargica RV Rabies Chandipura vesiculovirus Ramsay Hunt syndrome type 2 Myelitis Poliovirus Poliomyelitis Post-polio syndrome HTLV-I Tropical spastic paraparesis Eye Cytomegalovirus Cytomegalovirus retinitis HSV Herpes of the eye Cardiovascular CBV Pericarditis Myocarditis Respiratory system/ acute viral nasopharyngitis/ viral pneumonia DNA virus Epstein–Barr virus EBV infection/Infectious mononucleosis Cytomegalovirus RNA virus IV: Coronavirus 229E/NL63/HKU1/OC43 Common cold MERS coronavirus Middle East respiratory syndrome SARS coronavirus Severe acute respiratory syndrome SARS-CoV-2 COVID-19 V, Orthomyxoviridae: Influenza virus A/B/C/D Influenza/Avian influenza V, Paramyxoviridae: Human parainfluenza viruses Parainfluenza Human orthopneumovirus hMPV Human digestive system Pharynx/Esophagus MuV Mumps Cytomegalovirus Cytomegalovirus esophagitis Gastroenteritis/ diarrhea DNA virus Adenovirus Adenovirus infection RNA virus Rotavirus (Gastroenteritis) Norovirus Astrovirus Coronavirus Hepatitis DNA virus HBV (B) RNA virus CBV HAV (A) HCV (C) HDV (D) HEV (E) Pancreatitis CBV Urogenital BK virus MuV Mumps

v t e Diseases of the respiratory system Upper RT (including URTIs, common cold) Head sinuses Sinusitis nose Rhinitis Vasomotor rhinitis Atrophic rhinitis Hay fever Nasal polyp Rhinorrhea nasal septum Nasal septum deviation Nasal septum perforation Cocaine-induced midline destructive lesions (CIMDL) Nasal septal hematoma tonsil Tonsillitis Adenoid hypertrophy Peritonsillar abscess Neck pharynx Pharyngitis Strep throat Laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) Retropharyngeal abscess larynx Croup Laryngomalacia Laryngeal cyst Laryngitis Laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) Laryngospasm vocal cords Laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) Vocal fold nodule Vocal fold paresis Vocal cord dysfunction epiglottis Epiglottitis trachea Tracheitis Laryngotracheal stenosis Lower RT/ lung disease (including LRTIs) Bronchial/ obstructive acute Acute bronchitis chronic COPD Chronic bronchitis Acute exacerbation of COPD) Asthma (Status asthmaticus AERD Exercise-induced Bronchiectasis Cystic fibrosis unspecified Bronchitis Bronchiolitis Bronchiolitis obliterans Diffuse panbronchiolitis Interstitial/ restrictive (fibrosis) External agents/ occupational lung disease Pneumoconiosis Aluminosis Asbestosis Baritosis Bauxite fibrosis Berylliosis Caplan's syndrome Chalicosis Coalworker's pneumoconiosis Siderosis Silicosis Talcosis Byssinosis Hypersensitivity pneumonitis Bagassosis Bird fancier's lung Farmer's lung Lycoperdonosis Other ARDS Combined pulmonary fibrosis and emphysema Pulmonary edema Löffler's syndrome/Eosinophilic pneumonia Respiratory hypersensitivity Allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis Hamman–Rich syndrome Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis Sarcoidosis Vaping-associated pulmonary injury Obstructive / Restrictive Pneumonia/ pneumonitis By pathogen Viral Bacterial Pneumococcal Klebsiella Atypical bacterial Mycoplasma Legionnaires' disease Chlamydiae Fungal Pneumocystis Parasitic noninfectious Chemical/Mendelson's syndrome Aspiration/Lipid By vector/route Community-acquired Healthcare-associated Hospital-acquired By distribution Broncho- Lobar IIP UIP DIP BOOP-COP NSIP RB Other Atelectasis circulatory Pulmonary hypertension Pulmonary embolism Lung abscess Pleural cavity/ mediastinum Pleural disease Pleuritis/pleurisy Pneumothorax/Hemopneumothorax Pleural effusion Hemothorax Hydrothorax Chylothorax Empyema/pyothorax Malignant Fibrothorax Mediastinal disease Mediastinitis Mediastinal emphysema Other/general Respiratory failure Influenza Common cold SARS MERS COVID-19 Idiopathic pulmonary haemosiderosis Pulmonary alveolar proteinosis Tuberculosis

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Adapted from the Wikipedia article [Common cold](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Common_cold) by Wikipedia contributors ([contributor history](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Common_cold?action=history)). Available under [Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 4.0 International](https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/). Changes may have been made.