Common cold

(Acute coryza)

Common cold is caused by multiple viral strains including, rhinovirus, respiratory syncytial virus, parainfluenza virus and coronavirus.

Clinical suspicion & diagnosis

Clinical picture is highly suggestive, with rhinorrhoea, sneezing, mild fever and malaise in addition to mild pharyngitis.

Treatment

1. Nasal decongestants
2. antipyretics
3. Antibiotics if accompanied by secondary bacterial infection.