Beware of rhinovirus colds in spring: symptoms, prevention and treatment

Spring is the peak season for rhinovirus colds. Rhinovirus is the most common pathogen causing the common cold, accounting for about 30%-50% of cold cases. This virus is most active in an environment of 15℃ to 20℃, and the temperature and humidity conditions in spring provide an ideal breeding environment for it.

1. Characteristics and hazards of rhinovirus colds

Rhinovirus is a single-stranded RNA virus belonging to the Picornaviridae family. It is highly contagious and is mainly transmitted through droplets and contact. After the virus enters the human body, it mainly infects the upper respiratory tract and replicates in the epithelial cells of the nasopharynx.

Typical symptoms appear within 1-2 days after infection: nasal congestion, runny nose, sneezing, sore throat, and possibly a slight fever. Compared with influenza, rhinovirus colds have relatively mild symptoms, but the course of illness is longer, usually lasting 7-10 days.

Rhinovirus colds may cause a series of complications, including sinusitis, otitis media, aggravated asthma, etc. For children and the elderly with weak immunity, they may also develop lower respiratory tract infections.

2. Reasons for the high incidence of rhinovirus colds in spring

The temperature fluctuates greatly in spring, and the human body's resistance is relatively weak, providing an opportunity for virus invasion. The temperature difference between indoor and outdoor causes the human body's regulatory function to be disrupted, and the defense ability of the respiratory mucosa is reduced.

In spring, people spend more time outdoors, which increases the chances of virus transmission. Group activities such as school reopening and work resumption also create conditions for virus transmission.

The ability of rhinovirus to spread increases significantly in the spring. Studies have shown that rhinovirus survives longest and is most contagious in an environment with a temperature of 20°C and a relative humidity of 50%.

3. Scientifically prevent rhinovirus colds

Personal protection measures:

Wash your hands frequently, using soap or alcohol-based hand sanitizer

Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with your hands

Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue

Maintain social distance and avoid close contact with people with colds

Key points for environmental prevention and control:

Keep the room ventilated at least twice a day for 30 minutes each time

Regularly disinfect high-touch surfaces such as door handles and tabletops

Use an air purifier to keep the indoor air fresh

Control indoor humidity between 40%-60%

Ways to enhance immunity:

Get enough sleep, 7-8 hours a day

Eat a balanced diet with plenty of foods rich in vitamin C

Get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week

Maintain a good mental state and avoid excessive stress

IV. Treatment and care of rhinovirus colds

There is currently no specific antiviral drug, and treatment is mainly symptomatic:

Use saline solution to rinse your nasal cavity to relieve nasal congestion

Take antipyretics to relieve fever and headache

Using lozenges or sprays to relieve throat irritation

Get enough rest and drink plenty of water

Seek medical attention immediately if you experience any of the following:

High fever lasts for more than 3 days

Difficulty breathing or chest pain

Symptoms persist for more than 10 days without improvement

Complications such as earache and facial pain

Preventing rhinovirus colds requires the joint efforts of individuals, families and society. Through scientific preventive measures and a healthy lifestyle, we can effectively reduce the risk of infection and enjoy the beautiful spring time. If cold symptoms occur, take correct care measures in time and seek professional medical help when necessary. Let us work together to prevent and control respiratory diseases in spring and protect our health.