What Type of Pathogen Causes the Common Cold?
March 30, 2024 | by Yashaswi Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
The common cold is typically caused by viruses, most commonly rhinoviruses. Rhinoviruses belong to the Picornaviridae family and are responsible for a significant portion of cold-like illnesses in both adults and children. However, other viruses can also cause colds, including:
- Coronaviruses: Some strains of coronaviruses, such as certain types of human coronaviruses (not including SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID-19), can cause cold-like symptoms.
- Adenoviruses: Adenoviruses can cause a wide range of illnesses, including respiratory infections that mimic the common cold.
- Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV): RSV primarily affects the respiratory tract and is a common cause of cold-like symptoms, especially in young children and older adults.
- Parainfluenza viruses: These viruses are a common cause of respiratory infections, including colds, particularly in children.
- Enteroviruses: Certain enteroviruses can cause respiratory symptoms resembling those of the common cold.
While bacterial infections can cause symptoms similar to those of a cold, such as a runny or stuffy nose and cough, bacterial infections are not the primary cause of the common cold. The vast majority of colds are caused by viruses, particularly rhinoviruses.