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Overview


The common cold is an acute viral infection of the upper respiratory tract that affects the nose, throat, sinuses, larynx, and sometimes the lungs. Varieties of rhinovirus and coronavirus are the most common causes. These viruses are easily transmitted through contact with the secretions of infected people (e.g., handshakes, shared objects, kissing). Once the virus enters the body, it multiplies in the cells (often at the back of the nose) and causes an inflammatory response tha...Read the full article