Immunity & Infectious Diseases

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Q: Why are the symptoms of a cold similar every time?
A: By definition, the common cold is a mild viral infection of the upper respiratory passages that may be caused by over 200 different viruses, including paramyxoviruses (parainfluenza and respiratory syncytial virus), picornaviruses (rhinovirus, echo-virus, and coxsackievirus), adenovirus, and influenza type C virus. All of these pathogens affect the same respiratory passages: nose, throat, and windpipe (trachea). Once infected, cells lining the respiratory tract become inflamed and start producing mucus, causing typical symptoms such as stuffy or runny nose, sore throat, coughing and general malaise (tiredness). The cold will last as long as it takes ...