Rhinovirus
Rhinoviruses are a group of viruses belonging to the Picornaviridae family, which are responsible for many upper respiratory infections, commonly known as the common cold.[1] There are more than 100 identified types of rhinovirus that contribute to seasonal epidemics worldwide.[2]
Characteristics[edit | edit source]
Rhinoviruses are small, icosahedral viruses composed of a single-stranded RNA genome. They are non-enveloped and possess positive-sense RNA.[3] There are three species of rhinoviruses: Rhinovirus A, Rhinovirus B, and Rhinovirus C, each containing numerous individual serotypes.[4]
Disease[edit | edit source]
Rhinoviruses are the most common viral infective agents in humans, and are the predominant cause of the common cold. Symptoms of a rhinovirus infection include sore throat, runny nose, nasal congestion, sneezing, and sometimes accompanied by headache, muscle aches, fatigue, malaise, and loss of appetite.[5] While these infections are usually mild, they can lead to severe disease in people with weakened immune systems, the elderly, and those with chronic respiratory diseases.
Transmission[edit | edit source]
Rhinoviruses are spread through the air and close personal contact. They can also be spread by touching an object or surface with the virus on it and then touching the mouth, nose, or eyes.[6]
Prevention and Treatment[edit | edit source]
Prevention of rhinovirus infection is by good personal hygiene, including hand washing, avoiding close contact with sick individuals, and not touching the face with unwashed hands. There is no specific treatment for rhinovirus infection. Management involves relieving symptoms such as fever and aches with over-the-counter medications, drinking plenty of fluids, and getting plenty of rest.[7]
Research[edit | edit source]
Research into more effective treatments and potential vaccines for rhinovirus infections is ongoing. Due to the large number of rhinovirus serotypes, creating a vaccine has been challenging.[8]
See also[edit | edit source]
Further reading[edit | edit source]
External links[edit | edit source]
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD
