What's the Common Cold?

What is the Common Cold?

The common cold is a mild illness caused by tiny germs called viruses that affect your nose and throat. Almost every kid gets a cold at some point. Colds spread quickly, especially in places like schools or daycare centers. You can catch a cold by touching things that have the virus, like doorknobs or toys, or by being near someone who is sneezing or coughing.

Did you know there are over 200 different viruses that can cause a cold? Some of the most common ones are rhinovirus, coronavirus (the seasonal kind, which is different from COVID-19), and parainfluenza. But there are many more!

What Are the Symptoms of a Cold?

When you have a cold, you might feel some of these symptoms:

• Runny nose

• Stuffy nose

• Sore throat

• Cough

• Mild fever (sometimes)

• Feeling tired

These symptoms usually start 1-3 days after you touch the virus. Your cold might last about 1-2 weeks, but most of the time, you'll start feeling better before that!

What’s the Difference Between a Cold and the Flu?

A cold and the flu are different. A cold can be caused by many different viruses, while the flu is only caused by the flu virus. We have a vaccine for the flu that helps protect us, but there isn't a vaccine for the common cold because there are so many different viruses. When you get the flu, you might also get chills and body aches, but you don't get those with a cold.

How Is a Cold Treated?

Even though colds make you feel yucky, they usually go away on their own. Your immune system (the part of your body that fights germs) helps you get better.

Here are some ways to help you feel better:

• Rest

  – Sleep helps your body heal.

• Drink lots of fluids

  – Water and sports drinks are good choices.

• Wash your hands

  often to stop spreading germs.

• If your nose is stuffy, use a tissue to blow your nose.

• You can also gargle warm salt water or drink warm water with honey to help a sore throat.

• Cough drops and lozenges can also help with a cough.

There isn’t a cure for the common cold, so antibiotics (medicine for infections) don't work on colds. If your cold lasts more than 2 weeks or gets worse, or if you have trouble breathing, you should see a doctor.

How Can I Avoid Getting Sick?

The best way to avoid catching a cold is by washing your hands and staying away from sick people. If you have a cold, make sure you cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze so you don't spread it to others.

Also, eating healthy foods, drinking plenty of water, and getting enough sleep can help you stay healthy and keep germs away!

Summary

The common cold happens when you get an infection from a virus. It can cause symptoms like a runny nose, sore throat, cough, and more. Colds go away on their own, and you can feel better by resting, drinking water, and taking care of yourself. To avoid getting sick, wash your hands and stay away from sick people. Healthy habits like eating well, drinking water, and sleeping enough will help you stay healthy!