The common cold is a viral infection primarily affecting the upper respiratory tract. It’s caused by a group of viruses, most commonly rhinoviruses. Symptoms typically include a runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, coughing, sneezing, and sometimes a low-grade fever.

The common cold is highly contagious and spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. It can also spread by touching surfaces contaminated with the virus and then touching the face.

Preventive measures like regular handwashing, avoiding close contact with sick individuals, and practicing good respiratory hygiene (like covering your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing) can help reduce the risk of catching or spreading the common cold.