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Rhinovirus

 Rhinovirus



Rhinovirus is a virus. It's one of the most common causes of the common cold in children and adults.

Young children can get a cold up to 12 times a year. Most adults will get a cold up to 4 times a year.

For more information on colds in children, read the Pregnancy, Birth and Baby article Colds and flu in babies and children.

What are the symptoms of rhinovirus?

Normally, rhinovirus causes mild cold or flu-like symptoms that include:

runny or blocked nose

sneezing

coughing

sore throat and ears

feeling unwell

headache

fever — a temperature over 38°C

Normally, your symptoms will only last a few days. Most people feel better after 7 to 10 days.

Young children may have a green or yellow discharge from the nose (snot) when sick with rhinovirus.

What causes rhinovirus?

Rhinovirus is spread from person to person.

When you have rhinovirus, you release small droplets containing the virus into the air when you:

talk

sneeze

cough

These droplets can be breathed in by people nearby. The virus can then infect them.

The virus is also spread through:

shaking hands

touching objects that were sneezed or coughed on by someone with rhinovirus

Newborn babies are protected from rhinovirus for their first 6 months of life. This is because they have antibodies from their mother.

After this time, babies and young children have a high chance of getting a cold because they:

don't have a strong immune system

are often around other children and adults

Colds spread easily in daycare centres and schools because children often don't practise good hygiene.

Diagnosis

Rhinovirus infections, commonly known as the common cold, are usually diagnosed based on clinical symptoms and patient history. While laboratory testing, like RT-PCR, can confirm the presence of rhinovirus, it's typically not necessary for routine diagnosis. Symptoms such as sore throat, runny nose, cough, and sneezing are indicative of a rhinovirus infection. 

Diagnosis Methods:

Clinical Diagnosis: Most individuals can self-diagnose a cold based on familiar symptoms. 

Physical Examination: Doctors may perform a physical exam to rule out other conditions or assess the severity of symptoms. 

RT-PCR (Reverse Transcription-Polymerase Chain Reaction): This laboratory test can detect rhinovirus RNA in respiratory samples, particularly useful for severe or hospitalized patients. 

Multiplex PCR Assays: These tests can detect multiple respiratory viruses, including rhinovirus, in a single test. 

Viral Culture: This method is less commonly used due to the time it takes to obtain results and the specialized laboratory requirements. 

Serological Tests: While available, these tests are typically used in research settings. 

Treatment 

There's no specific cure or vaccine for rhinovirus, the primary cause of the common cold. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and preventing complications. Most people recover within 7 to 10 days with supportive care. 

Symptom Management:

Rest: Allows your body to focus on fighting the infection. 

Hydration: Drinking plenty of fluids helps thin mucus and prevent dehydration. 

Over-the-counter medications: Pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help with fever and aches. Decongestants and antihistamines can help with nasal congestion and runny nose, but use with caution, especially in children. 

Saline nasal rinses: Help to clear nasal passages. 

Humidified air: Can help soothe a sore throat and loosen congestion. 

Avoidance of irritants: Smoke, strong odors, and allergens can worsen symptoms. 

Type of DOctor Department : A general physician or a pediatrician

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