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Common cold
Grammatical Information
Animacy status
Inanimate
Plural form
common colds
What is the "common cold"?
The common cold is a viral infection of the upper respiratory system, typically caused by the virus called rhinoviruses or other respiratory viruses. It spreads when an infected person talks, coughs, or sneezes, releasing saliva or mucus, as well as by touching contaminated surfaces and then touching the nose or mouth. Symptoms often include a runny or stuffy nose, sneezing, sore throat, cough, mild fever, and general fatigue. While uncomfortable, the common cold usually resolves on its own within a week or two with rest, hydration, and over-the-counter medications to ease symptoms.
Examples
He caught a common cold after being outside in the cold.
