Article
Article
Common cold
Article By:
Pierce, Marcia M. Department of Biological Sciences, Eastern Kentucky University, Richmond, Kentucky.
Last reviewed:April 2021
DOI:https://doi.org/10.1036/1097-8542.151400
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An infectious viral disease of the upper respiratory system characterized by inflammation of the mucus membranes of the nose, throat, eyes, and eustachian tubes, leading to watery mucus production that turns purulent (containing pus). Common colds are caused by several different types of viruses, including adenoviruses (Fig. 1), coronaviruses, and rhinoviruses. Typical symptoms include sneezing, coughing, sore throat, and general malaise (tiredness), and may or may not be accompanied by fever. See also: Adenoviridae; Coronavirus; Detection of respiratory viruses; Fever; Inflammation; Respiratory system disorders; Rhinovirus; Virus; Virus classification
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