THE common cold is the most common respiratory infection in children and adults with 6 to 10 episodes per year in children and 2 to 4 in adults. The common cold affects everyone and is present all year round with seasonal peaks in early fall and spring.
The common cold represents 40% of winter respiratory illnesses. It is a viral infection in 95% of cases. 150 to 200 viruses are responsible for the common cold, but rhinoviruses are the main agents of the common cold, an infection most often limited to the upper airways.
Regardless of the causative pathogen, the common cold is a highly contagious infection. Contamination can occur through the air or through direct contact via soiled hands or everyday objects. There are several entry points into the body: the nose, the mouth, but also the eyes!
After an incubation period that varies between one and two days, the most common cold symptoms are stuffy and runny nose, as well as sneezing. They are often associated with pharyngitis, cough with or without expectoration, conjunctivitis, body aches, headaches, mild fever or loss of appetite.,.
Even if the cold is mild, it is embarrassing! Fortunately, there are home remedies that have been used for a very long time and that are effective in relieving cold symptoms.
