Respiratory Hygiene And Cough Etiquette

How The Common Cold Is Spread

The common cold is spread when an infected person talks, coughs, or sneezes small droplets containing infectious agents into the air. The droplets in the air may be breathed in by those nearby. The common cold is also spread by indirect contact with hands, tissues or other articles soiled by nose and throat discharges.

Newborn babies are protected for about the first 6 months of life by antibodies from their mothers. After this, young children are very susceptible to colds because they:

• haven’t built up immunity

• have close contact with adults and other children

• cannot practice good personal hygiene

• have tiny nose and ear passages which are easily blocked.

It is not abnormal for children to have five or more colds a year.

It is a myth that people get colds because of a weakened immune system. Healthy people with normal immune systems will almost always become infected if the virus enters their noses – however, sometimes they may not develop any symptoms.

Signs And Symptoms Of The Common Cold

Symptoms include:

• runny nose

• sneezing

• coughing

• mild sore throat

• watery eyes

• feeling unwell.

Fever is very uncommon, especially in people over 3 years of age. Most people will recover within 10 days.

Diagnosis Of The Common Cold

The diagnosis is made on the presenting signs and symptoms. Laboratory tests are not necessary.

Incubation Period

(time between becoming infected and developing symptoms)

1 to 3 days.

Infectious Period

(the time during which an infected person can infect others)

From about 1 day before symptoms begin and for the first 5 days of the illness.

Treatment For The Common Cold

There is no specific antiviral treatment for the viruses that cause colds. However, paracetamol and other medications available from pharmacies may provide relief of symptoms. Do not give aspirin to children under 12 unless specifically recommended by a doctor.

Prevention Of The Common Cold

• Exclusion from childcare, preschool, school or work is unnecessary, but a person with a cold should stay home until they feel well and the COVID-19 test is negative.

• Wash hands after contact with soiled tissues or nose and throat discharges.

• Cover your mouth and nose when sneezing or coughing.

• Some viruses live for several days on surfaces (for example, telephones, door handles, computer keyboards). Wipe down all frequently touched surfaces with a cloth dampened with detergent.