Types of common cold viruses
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Major Types of Common Cold Viruses
The common cold is caused by a wide variety of viruses, which can be grouped into several main families. The most important and frequently identified types include rhinoviruses, coronaviruses, adenoviruses, and myxo- and paramyxoviruses (which include influenza and parainfluenza viruses) 1256789.
Rhinoviruses: The Leading Cause
Rhinoviruses are the most common cause of the common cold, responsible for about 30% to 71% of cases in both adults and children 125689. These viruses are small RNA viruses with many different antigenic types, making immunity type-specific and reinfection common. Rhinoviruses are especially prevalent in children and are often detected in outpatient settings 1256.
Coronaviruses: A Significant Contributor
Coronaviruses are another important group, including types such as OC43, 229E, NL63, and HKU1. While they are less common than rhinoviruses, they are still regularly detected in both adults and children with colds 568. Newer coronaviruses like NL63 and HKU1 have been identified in recent years, but their role in the common cold is considered minor compared to rhinoviruses .
Adenoviruses: Less Frequent but Notable
Adenoviruses can also cause common cold symptoms, though they are less frequently identified than rhinoviruses and coronaviruses. They are more often associated with outbreaks in specific populations, such as children in day care or military recruits 12568.
Myxo- and Paramyxoviruses: Influenza and Parainfluenza
The myxo- and paramyxovirus groups include influenza viruses (A, B, and C) and parainfluenza viruses (types 1, 2, 3, and 4). These viruses can cause cold-like symptoms, but are more commonly associated with more severe respiratory illnesses. Parainfluenza and influenza viruses are detected in a small percentage of common cold cases, especially in children 124568.
Other Viruses: Enteroviruses, RSV, and Emerging Agents
Other viruses occasionally linked to the common cold include enteroviruses, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and newly discovered viruses such as human metapneumovirus (hMPV) and human bocavirus (HBoV). Enteroviruses and RSV are more often associated with severe respiratory infections but can also cause mild cold symptoms. HBoV and hMPV are found in a small proportion of cases, mainly in children 568.
Multiple Virus Infections and Unidentified Causes
It is common for more than one virus to be detected in a single patient, especially in young children who are frequently exposed to respiratory viruses . Despite advances in diagnostic methods, a portion of common cold cases still have no identified viral cause, suggesting that additional, as-yet-undiscovered viruses may exist 89.
Conclusion
The common cold is caused by a diverse group of viruses, with rhinoviruses being the most common, followed by coronaviruses, adenoviruses, and myxo- and paramyxoviruses. Other viruses, such as enteroviruses, RSV, hMPV, and HBoV, also contribute, particularly in children. The variety of viruses and their many subtypes explain why people can catch colds repeatedly throughout their lives 125689.
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