külmetushaigusi

Külmetushaigusi, also known as the common cold, refers to a group of contagious respiratory illnesses primarily affecting the upper respiratory tract. These infections are most often caused by viruses, with rhinoviruses being the most frequent culprits. Other viruses like coronaviruses, adenoviruses, and enteroviruses can also cause cold symptoms. Transmission typically occurs through airborne droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks, or by direct contact with contaminated surfaces.

Symptoms of a cold usually appear one to three days after exposure to the virus and can include a sore throat, runny nose, nasal congestion, sneezing, coughing, and mild body aches. While generally mild, cold symptoms can sometimes lead to more serious complications such as sinusitis, ear infections, or bronchitis, particularly in vulnerable populations like young children and the elderly.

There is no specific cure for the common cold; treatment focuses on relieving symptoms. Rest, adequate fluid intake, and over-the-counter medications for pain and fever relief are the primary recommendations. Antiviral medications are not effective against the viruses that cause the common cold. Prevention strategies include frequent handwashing, avoiding close contact with sick individuals, and not touching one's eyes, nose, and mouth. Vaccines are not available for the common cold due to the vast number of viruses that can cause it and their tendency to mutate.