Published: January 20, 2020
Cold viruses can survive on indoor surfaces for up to seven days, but are infectious only for about 24 hours. Generally, they last longer on hard, nonporous surfaces such as plastic or stainless steel. The virus is less likely to live as long on soft, porous surfaces such as tissues.
You’re more likely to catch a cold from someone who’s contagious. Still, being careful around potentially infected objects can help.
Washing your hands often is a critical step in preventing colds, especially when you’re in close contact with a sick person. Use disinfectants to clean objects or areas that have been in contact with individuals who are sick.
The majority of colds are caused by rhinoviruses, the most common causes of viral infections in humans. These pathogens thrive in warm, moist environments such as throats and nasal passageways. Infants, the elderly and those with weakened immune systems are at the highest risk for infection.
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Droplets containing rhinovirus can spread the bug through coughs and sneezes. If you’re around someone with a cold, avoid touching your face. Your hands can pick up the virus; then when you touch your mouth, nose or eyes, you can get infected. If you’re sick, cover coughs and sneezes.
Cold symptoms include sore throats, runny noses, nasal congestion, coughing, fatigue and headaches or general soreness. Rest and over-the-counter medicines are typically enough to reduce symptoms within a couple of days. Fever or chills, as well as more severe or abruptly occurring symptoms, may be a sign of the flu rather than a cold.