What causes the Common Cold? 

The common cold is most often caused by rhinoviruses but can also be caused by parainfluenza viruses and seasonal coronaviruses (not the same as SARS-COV-2 that causes COVID-19). Colds caused by rhinoviruses occur more commonly in the spring and fall.  

What are Rhinoviruses?

Rhinoviruses, also known as the common cold, cause infections of the lining of the nose, sinuses and throat. Rhinoviruses are the most common cause of colds. For healthy individuals, most colds do not cause serious health problems as the infection is typically mild. Young children and those with weakened immune systems have an increased risk of the infection travelling lower in the lungs causing pneumonia. 

Is the Common Cold Contagious?  

Yes. Rhinoviruses are easy to catch and spread to other people. Colds spread when people come in contact with nasal secretions from an infected person. Most often, the virus gains entry into the body through physical contact when people touch their mouth, nose, or eyes with their unclean hands. Less often, colds are spread when people breathe air containing droplets from coughing or by an infected person. A cold is most contagious during the first 1 or 2 days after symptoms develop.