Colds are often thought of as a winter ailment, but they can occur year-round. Viruses that cause colds circulate continually, making summer colds a possibility.
Why Summer Colds Strike
Colds are caused by viruses, not by cold temperatures. While rhinoviruses frequently cause winter colds, different viruses are often responsible for summer colds. Enteroviruses, for example, are particularly active from June to October and are a common culprit. Over 200 strains of enteroviruses exist.
These viruses spread through tiny droplets expelled when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. Transmission can also occur through direct contact, such as touching, or indirectly by touching contaminated surfaces and then your face. Summer activities in crowded public spaces, like amusement parks, outdoor concerts, or air travel, can increase exposure. Air conditioning can also contribute to a dry environment that allows viruses to thrive.
Spotting a Summer Cold
Symptoms of a summer cold often mirror those of a winter cold, including a runny or stuffy nose, sneezing, a sore throat, and a cough. Some people may also experience a headache, body aches, or a mild fever, although a fever is less common with summer colds compared to influenza. Because enteroviruses can affect the digestive system, summer colds may also include nausea, vomiting, or skin rashes.
Distinguishing a summer cold from allergies or the flu can be challenging due to overlapping symptoms. Unlike allergies, colds can cause a fever and body aches. Allergy symptoms include itchy, watery eyes and last as long as allergen exposure persists, potentially for weeks. Cold symptoms usually resolve within 7 to 10 days, though a cough can linger for up to a month. Flu symptoms are generally more severe than cold symptoms, often involving a higher fever, significant body aches, and fatigue.
Preventing and Treating Summer Colds
Preventing summer colds involves practicing good hygiene. Regular handwashing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after touching shared surfaces or being in public, helps reduce the spread of germs. Avoiding touching your face, eyes, nose, and mouth also minimizes the risk of viruses entering your body. Maintain distance from individuals who appear sick and stay home if you are experiencing symptoms to prevent further transmission.
If you do catch a summer cold, treatment focuses on symptom relief, as antibiotics are ineffective against viruses. Getting ample rest allows your body to conserve energy for fighting the infection. Staying well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water, broths, or electrolyte beverages helps thin mucus and soothe a sore throat. Over-the-counter medications can alleviate symptoms like fever, headache, and congestion. Using a humidifier, taking steamy showers, or gargling with salt water can also provide comfort for congestion and sore throats.