rhinoviirus

Rhinoviruses are a genus of picornaviruses. They are the most common cause of the common cold in humans. There are over 160 known serotypes of rhinovirus. These viruses are small, non-enveloped, positive-sense single-stranded RNA viruses.

Rhinoviruses are transmitted through respiratory droplets, such as when an infected person coughs or sneezes, or by direct contact with contaminated surfaces. They infect the upper respiratory tract, primarily the nasal passages and throat. The virus replicates in the epithelial cells of the respiratory mucosa, triggering an inflammatory response that leads to the characteristic symptoms of a cold, including runny nose, sneezing, sore throat, and congestion.

While rhinoviruses typically cause mild illness, they can lead to more severe complications in certain individuals, such as infants, the elderly, and those with pre-existing respiratory conditions like asthma. In these cases, rhinovirus infections can exacerbate asthma symptoms or lead to secondary bacterial infections like sinusitis or ear infections.

There is no specific antiviral treatment for rhinovirus infections. Management focuses on relieving symptoms through rest, hydration, and over-the-counter medications. Prevention strategies include frequent handwashing, avoiding close contact with sick individuals, and not touching one's face. Research is ongoing to develop vaccines and broad-spectrum antiviral therapies.