The common cold is a mild viral infection of the nose and throat, also called acute viral rhinopharyngitis. It is the most common illness in the world: adults typically catch two or three colds a year, and young children even more. Colds usually clear up on their own within 7 to 10 days, and the best treatment is rest, fluids and simple remedies for symptoms.
Key facts
- More than 200 viruses can cause colds. Rhinoviruses are the most common.
- Colds spread through droplets and hands that touch contaminated surfaces.
- Antibiotics do not work against cold viruses.
- Most people feel better within a week, though a cough can last up to three weeks.
- Regular handwashing is one of the best ways to prevent colds.
Causes and spread
Cold viruses spread when an infected person coughs, sneezes or talks, releasing droplets, or when you touch a contaminated surface and then your nose, mouth or eyes. You are most infectious in the first few days of symptoms. Being cold or getting wet in the rain does not cause a cold, but colds are more common in crowded places and during harmattan and rainy seasons, when people spend more time indoors together.
Symptoms
Symptoms usually start 1 to 3 days after infection:
- Blocked or runny nose
- Sneezing
- Sore or scratchy throat
- Cough
- Hoarse voice
- Mild headache, body aches and tiredness
- Mild fever, more often in children
Mucus often thickens and turns yellow or green after a few days. This is a normal part of a cold and does not mean you need antibiotics.
Cold or flu?
Flu (influenza) usually comes on suddenly with high fever, severe body aches and exhaustion that can keep you in bed. A cold starts gradually and is milder. In Nigeria, any fever should also be tested for malaria.
Home care
- Rest and get enough sleep.
- Drink plenty of fluids, such as water, warm drinks and soups, to prevent dehydration.
- Relieve pain and fever with paracetamol or ibuprofen, following the dose on the pack. Do not give aspirin to children under 16.
- Soothe a sore throat by gargling with warm salt water, or with warm water with honey and lemon (not for babies under one year).
- Ease a blocked nose with saline drops or sprays, or by breathing in steam from a bowl of hot water. Be careful to avoid burns, and do not use steam with young children.
- Decongestant sprays from a pharmacy can help adults for a few days, but should not be used for more than 5 to 7 days.
Most cough and cold medicines are not recommended for children under six. Ask a pharmacist before giving any medicine to a child.
Why antibiotics are not the answer
Antibiotics kill bacteria, not viruses. Taking them for a cold will not help you recover faster, can cause side effects such as diarrhoea, and contributes to antibiotic resistance, which makes future infections harder to treat. Only take antibiotics when prescribed by a qualified health worker.
Prevention
- Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially before eating and after blowing your nose.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your elbow, and throw tissues away.
- Stay at home when unwell if you can, to avoid spreading the virus.
- Do not share cups, towels or cutlery with someone who has a cold.
- Eat well, stay active and do not smoke.
Possible complications
Occasionally, a cold leads to an ear infection, sinusitis, a chest infection or a flare of asthma or COPD.
When to see a doctor
See a health worker if:
- Symptoms last more than 10 days or get worse after starting to improve
- You have a high fever, or any fever that could be malaria
- You have severe sore throat, ear pain or pain around the eyes and cheeks
- You have a long-term condition such as asthma, diabetes or heart disease
Seek urgent care for difficulty breathing, chest pain, confusion, a baby under three months with fever, or a child who is very drowsy, not feeding or has fast breathing.
Frequently asked questions
Does vitamin C prevent colds?
Regular vitamin C does not prevent colds in most people, though it may slightly shorten them. A balanced diet with fruit and vegetables is enough for most people.
How long am I contagious?
You are most contagious in the first 2 to 3 days of symptoms, but can spread the virus for up to two weeks.
