Human rhinovirus, or HRV, is the most common viral infectious agent in humans. It is a member of the Picornaviridae family and is the primary cause of the illness commonly known as the common cold. There are over 160 recognized types of rhinovirus, which helps explain why people can get colds repeatedly throughout their lives. Each infection is thought to provide immunity to that specific serotype. The virus has a preference for the slightly cooler environment of the nasal passages, replicating most effectively at temperatures around 33°C (91.4°F).
Symptoms and Transmission of Rhinovirus
After an incubation period of 12 to 72 hours, the first signs of a rhinovirus infection include a sore throat and nasal dryness. These are followed by more familiar cold symptoms like a runny nose, nasal congestion, and sneezing, which intensify over the subsequent two to three days. Coughing, headaches, and mild body aches may also occur. A low-grade fever can occur, particularly in infants and young children, though it is less common than with influenza. An uncomplicated cold lasts about a week, though some symptoms can persist for up to two weeks.
The virus spreads efficiently from person to person. Transmission occurs by inhaling respiratory droplets from an infected person’s coughs or sneezes, or through close personal contact. Another method is contact with contaminated surfaces (fomites), as the virus can survive for hours on objects like doorknobs. The virus enters the body when a person touches a contaminated surface and then their eyes, nose, or mouth. This contagiousness contributes to its rapid spread in crowded indoor environments.
Treatment and Prevention Strategies
There is no specific cure or vaccine for human rhinovirus. Because it is a viral infection, antibiotics are ineffective and should not be used unless a secondary bacterial infection develops. Management centers on supportive care to alleviate symptoms while the immune system clears the virus. This includes getting adequate rest and staying well-hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids.
To manage discomfort, over-the-counter medications can provide temporary relief. Decongestants may help with a stuffy nose, while pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen can reduce headaches and body aches. Saline nasal sprays can also soothe irritated nasal passages and loosen mucus. For adults, some studies suggest that taking high doses of zinc within 24 hours of symptom onset may shorten the cold’s duration.
Preventing the spread of rhinovirus relies on consistent hygiene practices.
- Washing hands frequently and thoroughly with soap and water.
- Using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer when soap and water are not available.
- Avoiding touching the face, particularly the eyes, nose, and mouth, with unwashed hands.
- Regularly disinfecting frequently touched surfaces in the home and workplace.
When a Cold Becomes More Serious
While most rhinovirus infections are self-limiting, they can lead to more significant health problems, particularly in certain populations. The virus is a trigger for asthma exacerbations and can worsen symptoms for individuals with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), leading to acute bronchitis. The inflammation caused by the virus also makes the respiratory tract more susceptible to secondary bacterial infections.
This susceptibility can lead to acute sinusitis from fluid buildup in the nasal passages. The virus can also contribute to acute otitis media, or middle ear infections, especially in young children. Less commonly, the infection can progress to the lower respiratory tract, causing more severe illnesses like bronchiolitis and pneumonia.
Certain groups are at a higher risk for developing these complications. Infants, particularly those born prematurely, and the elderly are more vulnerable to severe outcomes from a rhinovirus infection. Individuals with weakened immune systems, such as transplant recipients or those undergoing cancer treatment, are also at increased risk for serious illness. People with underlying chronic health conditions should also be mindful that a common cold can escalate.