Causes

The cause of the common cold has been very much debated and pondered on for centuries.  Superstitions and myth regarding causes of a cold abound in all cultures; but what really causes a cold?

As already mentioned, it is a viral infection - thus viruses are to blame for this illness.  There are more than 200 viruses that can bring about the symptoms associated with a cold.  Not all of them are identified already but the most common ones are rhinoviruses and coronaviruses.  Other viruses that may cause a cold may also bring about more serious illnesses such as the flu.

Despite longstanding beliefs, there is no solid scientific proof that you can get colds because of the weather.  Also contrary to popular belief, the cold virus is not easily transmitted through the air.  The most common way of transmitting the virus is through direct contact.