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Signs and symptoms in common colds
D A Tyrrell1, S Cohen, J E Schlarb
1MRC Common Cold Unit, Harvard Hospital, Salisbury, Wilts, UK.
Epidemiology and Infection
|August 1, 1993
Summary
Common cold viruses, including rhinoviruses and respiratory syncytial virus, show similar symptom patterns. The primary difference in illness caused by these respiratory viruses lies in their incubation period duration.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Infectious Diseases
- Respiratory Medicine
Background:
- Common colds are frequently caused by a variety of respiratory viruses.
- Understanding the distinct disease patterns of these viruses is crucial for effective management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe and compare the disease patterns induced by five common respiratory viruses.
- To identify differences and similarities in symptom development and incubation periods.
Main Methods:
- Volunteers were inoculated with low doses of rhinovirus (types 2, 9, 14), coronavirus (type 229E), or respiratory syncytial virus.
- Participants were quarantined and monitored daily for respiratory signs and symptoms.
- Analysis included only subjects with confirmed clinical illness, viral shedding, and/or antibody response (n=116).
Main Results:
- The incubation period varied significantly among the different viruses studied.
- Symptom patterns were largely similar across the various viral infections.
- Analysis of specific symptoms like nasal discharge versus coughing suggests targeted therapeutic approaches.
Conclusions:
- The primary distinguishing factor among common cold viruses is the length of the incubation period.
- Symptom presentation is not a reliable differentiator between these viral infections.
- Tailoring treatments based on specific symptom categories (e.g., nasal vs. cough symptoms) is a viable strategy.