Common Cold Viruses: Symptoms, Causes & Cold vs. COVID Differences

The common cold is not caused by one single virus. In fact, more than 200 different viruses are known to cause colds. These viruses can cause symptoms such as congestion, sore throat, sneezing, cough, and fatigue.

Rhinovirus is the most common cause of colds, but other viruses such as coronavirus, adenovirus, parainfluenza virus, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) can also cause similar symptoms. Because some symptoms overlap with COVID, it can also be helpful to know the difference.

What Is the Common Cold?

The common cold is a viral upper respiratory infection that affects the nose, throat, and airways. It is one of the most common illnesses people experience each year. Cold symptoms often include:

• Runny nose
• Stuffy nose
• Sneezing
• Sore throat
• Mild cough
• Watery eyes
• Fatigue
• Mild headache

How Long Does a Cold Last?

Symptoms typically begin gradually and improve within 7 to 10 days, though some coughs or congestion may linger longer.

What Virus Causes the Common Cold?

More than 200 different viruses can cause the common cold, with rhinovirus responsible for approximately 30-35% of cases among adults. To date, more than 100 different types of rhinoviruses have been identified.

Other viruses that can cause cold symptoms include coronavirus, adenovirus, parainfluenza virus, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).

What Is the Most Common Cold Virus?

Rhinovirus is the most common virus linked to colds.

4 Common Cold Viruses

Many different viruses can cause cold symptoms. Here are four of the most common.

Rhinovirus

Rhinovirus is the leading cause of the common cold. It spreads easily through close contact, respiratory droplets, or contaminated surfaces. Because there are many strains of rhinovirus, people can catch colds more than once.

Coronavirus

Coronavirus refers to a family of viruses. Some human coronaviruses can cause mild respiratory illnesses like the common cold. These cold-causing coronaviruses are different from SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19.

Parainfluenza Virus

Parainfluenza virus can cause cold-like symptoms in both adults and children. It is also known for causing croup and other respiratory illnesses.

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) can feel like a cold in many healthy adults, but it can be more serious for infants, older adults, and people with certain health conditions.

How Do Cold Viruses Spread?

Cold viruses can spread in two ways:

• Through tiny air droplets when a person with a cold coughs, sneezes, or blows their nose
• Through direct contact with a surface that has been contaminated with virus particles (cold germs)

You may be more prone to colds in the winter because people often spend more time indoors near others who are sick. However, there is no evidence that your chances of getting a cold are directly related to exposure to cold or wet weather. Factors such as extreme fatigue, stress, and allergies may also make you more likely to catch a cold.

How Contagious Is a Cold?

Colds are highly contagious, especially in the first few days of symptoms.

How Can You Tell If It’s a Cold or COVID?

Mild upper-respiratory symptoms often point to a cold, while fever, body aches, and fatigue may be more common with COVID. Testing is the best way to confirm.

Cold vs. COVID Symptoms

If you have severe symptoms, high fever, breathing trouble, or worsening illness, contact a healthcare provider.

Treating the Common Cold

There is no cure for the common cold, and there are no vaccines for preventing colds. However, there are several ways to help manage symptoms while your body recovers.

1. Rest: Getting enough rest gives your body time to recover and supports your immune system.
2. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated and help soothe irritation.
3. Use a Humidifier: Using a humidifier or cool mist vaporizer may help soothe cold symptoms and dryness.
4. Over-the-Counter Relief: Over-the-counter medicines may help provide relief of cold symptoms such as cough, sore throat, runny nose, and congestion. Always read and follow label directions. If your child has a cold, talk to your doctor before giving non-prescription cold medicines, as some ingredients may not be recommended for children.3
5. Antibiotics and Colds: Antibiotics are used to treat bacterial infections and are not necessary for cold treatment. Taking antibiotics when they are not needed will not cure a cold.

Using Zicam™ to Shorten Your Cold

There are also homeopathic medicines that may help decrease the duration of a cold. Zicam™ Cold Remedy products are designed to shorten colds when taken at the first sign, helping you feel better faster.*‡

Available options include Zicam™ Cold Remedy RapidMelts™, ULTRA RapidMelts™, Cold Remedy Nasal Spray, Cold Remedy Nasal Swabs, Medicated Fruit Drops, and Lozenges – offering different ways to support your recovery based on your preferences.

The key is acting early. At the first sign of symptoms like a scratchy throat, sneezing, or congestion, using Zicam™ as directed may help you get ahead of your cold and get back to your routine sooner.*‡

How to Prevent Cold Viruses

While no method can guarantee you won’t get sick, these habits may help reduce your chances of catching a cold:

• Wash your hands often
• Avoid close contact with sick individuals
• Clean commonly touched surfaces
• Get enough sleep
• Manage stress
• Stay home when you’re sick

When Are Cold Symptoms Something More Serious?

Most colds improve on their own, but medical care may be a good idea if you experience:

• Symptoms lasting longer than 10 days
• High fever
• Severe sore throat
• Trouble breathing
• Chest pain
• Dehydration
• Symptoms that worsen instead of improve