Common Cold vs Influenza: They are different!!!

The Common Cold is the Most common viral disease that caused by infection with a variety of RNA viruses. The viruses including over 100 distinct rhinoviruses and several coronavirus. The common cold is an acute and can be self limited upper respiration disorder.  Infection is more likely during winter months adan during rainy season. The viruses infect the nasal respiratory ephitelial cells, causing increased mucus production and edema. These viruses can be optimal reproduce at temperatures well below 37”C. 

The infected cells release chemical mediators, such a bradykinin which make increase mucus production, nasal congestion and eutashian tube obstruction. Clinically, the common cold is characterized by rhinorrhea, pharyngitis, cough and low-grade fever. Symptom last about a week.  Common cold is different from influenza.!!!

And Rhinoviruses and coronaviruses do not destroy respiratory ephitelium, the symptom coming from respon from the human body.

References: Rubin R, Strayer DS. Rubins pathology: Clinicopathologyc foundation of medicine. 2012. Edisi 6. Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.