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The common cold is a mild, self-limiting viral infection of the upper respiratory tract characterized by symptoms such as rhinorrhoea, nasal congestion, and cough. It is primarily caused by rhinoviruses and spreads through respiratory droplets and contaminated surfaces, particularly in crowded settings. While most cases resolve within 7-10 days, certain red flags indicate the need for further assessment for potential bacterial infections.

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2 views1 page

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The common cold is a mild, self-limiting viral infection of the upper respiratory tract characterized by symptoms such as rhinorrhoea, nasal congestion, and cough. It is primarily caused by rhinoviruses and spreads through respiratory droplets and contaminated surfaces, particularly in crowded settings. While most cases resolve within 7-10 days, certain red flags indicate the need for further assessment for potential bacterial infections.

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ajk95933
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Case Study — Acute Viral Upper Respiratory Tract Infection

PART 2: REVIEW — THE COMMON COLD (ACUTE VIRAL URI)

Definition
The common cold is a mild, self-limiting, acute viral infection of the upper respiratory tract, primarily
affecting the nasal mucosa and pharynx, and characterised by rhinorrhoea, nasal congestion, sneezing, sore
throat, cough, and low-grade fever.

Epidemiology
It is among the most frequent illnesses in humans, with adults experiencing several episodes per year on
average and children experiencing even more, particularly during the cooler months and in crowded settings
such as schools, hostels, and workplaces.

Etiology
• Rhinoviruses — the most common cause, accounting for a large proportion of cases
• Coronaviruses (non-severe strains)
• Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)
• Parainfluenza and influenza viruses
• Adenovirus and human metapneumovirus, less commonly

Transmission
• Respiratory droplets from coughing or sneezing
• Direct contact with respiratory secretions
• Contaminated surfaces followed by self-inoculation via the nose, eyes, or mouth
• Close contact settings (schools, hostels, offices) facilitate rapid spread

Clinical Features
• Rhinorrhoea (initially watery, may become thicker) and nasal obstruction
• Sneezing
• Sore throat, often mild and early in the illness
• Cough, usually dry, may persist after other symptoms resolve
• Low-grade fever, more common in children than adults
• Headache and mild malaise/body ache
• Typically resolves within 7–10 days; cough may linger slightly longer

Red Flags — When to Suspect Something More


Most colds are uncomplicated, but certain features should prompt reassessment for a bacterial or more serious
cause:
• High-grade fever persisting beyond 3–5 days, or fever that returns after initially improving
• Symptoms worsening after an initial period of improvement ("double-sickening" — suggestive of
secondary bacterial sinusitis)
• Purulent nasal discharge with facial pain/pressure lasting beyond 10 days
• Severe sore throat with difficulty swallowing, drooling, or muffled voice
• Ear pain or discharge (possible otitis media, especially in children)

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