The common cold is one of the most infectious diseases in the world. Kids in particular suffer from as many as eight colds per year. Colds are the number one reason for students missing school and visiting the doctor. Most colds are caused by rhinoviruses which are transmitted in invisible droplets suspended in the air or on the things that we touch. Altogether there are about 100 rhinoviruses and they can all cause sore throats, headaches, fever, muscle aches and breathing problems.
Colds are most contagious during the first three days after the symptoms appear, and can be contagious for up to three weeks. A cold is caught through contact with an infected person or breathing in viral particles that are spread through the air from sneezing or coughing. There is no way to avoid getting a cold, but it is possible to prevent infecting other people if you have one. For example, you should cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing. Although taking zinc and vitamin C alleviate the effects somewhat, the only real cure is rest.
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