Let the cold not be so common anymore
The common cold is an upper respiratory infection caused by a virus. Its symptoms are well known and begin with tiredness, followed by sneezing, headache, runny nose and cough. The illness resolves within a week, although sometimes it can last for up to 3 weeks.
How is the virus transmitted?
- When a person sneezes, his nasal droplets sprayed into the air contains a heavy load of the virus. This can directly infect a person in the vicinity
- The virus remains alive for a prolonged duration of time on tables, desks, keyboards of computers, etc., and infect a person when he touches it
- An infected child can spread the virus through toys, books, pencils, etc. This is common in daycare and schools
- There is no cure for the common cold
- Plenty of warm fluids like soups should be offered to the person
- Steam inhalation 2-3 times a day provides relief by its soothing effect
- A sore throat can benefit from warm saline gargles 2-3 times a day
- Doctors may prescribe medications such as antihistamines, pain relievers, paracetamol, etc. Avoid using cold-and-cough medications in children younger than 4 years due to the risk of serious complications
- Zinc, vitamin C, etc have been tried but none have proven benefits
- Wash hands thoroughly especially after being at public places. Antibacterial soap is ideal, but you may use a hand sanitizer instead
- Do not touch your face, nose, eyes as far as possible, especially if you are in a public area
- Keep surfaces like tables, drawer pulls, keyboards, mouse, light switches, remote controls, etc. clean and wipe with a disinfectant solution if an infected person is around
- It is also important to follow a balanced diet, get regular exercise and beat stress.