“Colds are minor infections of the nose and throat caused by more than 200 different viruses. Rhinovirus is the most common cause, accounting for 10 to 40 percent of colds. Other common cold viruses include coronavirus and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).  A cold may last for about one week, but some colds last longer, especially in children, the elderly and those in poor health.  In the United States, colds account for more visits to the doctor than any other condition.  We also are all at risk for getting and spreading the flu. If you have asthma or other lung diseases, you are at higher risk of developing complications from the flu.  Influenza is a highly contagious respiratory infection.  It’s caused by one of three different viruses, although most serious illness is caused by flu strains A and B.  The best prevention is getting the yearly flu vaccine.”

American Lung Association (https://www.lung.org)