An acute self-limiting inflammation of the upper respiratory tract mucosa that may involve any of the nose, thorat, sinuses and larynx

The illness varies according to the individual and causative pathogen

Occasionally, there is spread to the lower respiratory tract

Epidemiology:

• Per year, children have 6-8 colds and adults have 2-4
• Adults in contact with children get more colds
• No major sex or ethnic differences

Aetiology

Often, no infective organisms are found

• The majority are caused by rhinoviruses (up to 50%)
• Other known pathogens:
  • corona virus
  • influenza
  • parainfluenza
  • RSV
  • metapneumovirus

Risk factors:

• Exposure to affected individuals
• young age
• winter season
• day care attendance
• exposure to cigarette smoke or other resp. irritants