Rhinoviruses (rhinoviruses) are the most common cause of colds. They are responsible for about 50 percent. cases of this infection. What are the symptoms of rhinovirus infection? How is it infected? What is the treatment?
Rhinoviruses (HRV, rhinoviruses, cold viruses ) are a type of viruses belonging to the picornavirus family (Picornaviridae). They have a unique structure - they consist of the so-called the capsid, which is the protein shell, and the core, which is the RNA molecule, inside the capsid. After entering the human body, they integrate their genetic material (RNA) into DNA molecules (human genome). In this way, they program the cell to produce new viruses on its own. For most rhinoviruses, the best conditions for reproduction are low temperatures - 33 ° C, which is the same as in the nasopharynx.
Rhinoviruses cannot reproduce on their own. For this they need "host" cells, which are human cells.
Rhinoviruses (HRV) - the most common cause of colds
Rhinoviruses account for about half of all colds each year and are the cause of most respiratory illnesses in spring and fall. In addition, rhinoviral infections have been shown to be associated with acute otitis media, pneumonia in children, and asthma exacerbations in both children and adults. It has been proven that, compared to he althy people, asthma patients are more susceptible to rhinovirus infections and have more severe and longer-lasting lower respiratory tract symptoms in the course of HRV infection.
Rhinoviruses (HRV) - how do you get infected?
Rhinoviruses are transmitted by airborne droplets. Infection can also occur as a result of contact with things on which viruses are found.
Rhinoviruses (HRV) - symptoms of infection
The only way to prevent rhinovirus infection is to avoid human communities during the most frequent illnesses and to follow the rules of personal hygiene.
- stuffy nose, runny nose and nasal swelling
- sneezing
- scratchy throat
- feeling broken, weak
- headache
- increased body temperature
Increased temperature lasts up to 3 days, sore throat and rhinitis for about 7 days, and coughing for up to 2-3 weeks.
Rhinoviruses (HRV) - how to protect yourself from infection?
The body is unable to develop immunity to the rhinovirus because there are over 100 variants of this virus that differ in the fragments recognized by the immune system. Therefore, the development of colds may occur many times within one year.
Antibiotics do not work against viruses, so there is no point in taking them when you have a cold.
Rhinoviruses (HRV) - treatment of infection
Treatment consists in relieving the symptoms of the disease. For this purpose, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, first-generation antihistamines, antitussive drugs, nasal "detachers" (pseudoephedrine and phenylephrine) are used.
You can also use home remedies for colds, such as tea with raspberry juice.