Common Cold: Is It Contagious? Causes, Symptoms & Transmission

The common cold is an infectious viral condition caused by more than 100 varieties of the rhinovirus. It affects the upper respiratory tract and produces sore throat, cough, stuffy nose and sneezing.

Transmission

• A common cold can be contracted if a rhinovirus infiltrates the membranes of the nose or eyes. Inhaling or touching mucus from an infected person after they sneeze or cough can lead to infection.

Hot &Cold

• Being exposed to colder temperatures does not cause a cold. However, colder temperatures tend to bring people inside, where close contact can help the disease spread.

Infection Time Frame

• An infected person is most susceptible to transmitting their cold to others about two days into the first symptoms.

Asymptomatic

• It is possible for someone to contract a rhinovirus, as well as transmit it to others, and never show any symptoms of a cold.

Prevention

• Practice good hygiene and avoid being in prolonged close contact with infected individuals. Be sure to wash hands regularly, and avoid touching the mouth and face, especially after handling railings, doorknobs or commonly touched surfaces.