Health Science | What is rhinovirus?

Recently, respiratory infectious diseases have become prevalent, including influenza and Mycoplasma pneumoniae infections. Rhinovirus infection quickly became a hot topic. Speaking of rhinovirus, most people may be unfamiliar with it. Is rhinovirus a new virus? How to prevent and control it?

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1. What is rhinovirus?

Rhinovirus (RV) is a common virus that causes colds. It was first isolated by scientists such as Pelon in 1956 from specimens of patients with respiratory tract infections. Rhinovirus is widely prevalent around the world and can occur throughout the year, but is often prevalent in early autumn and spring. Because there are many types of rhinovirus, it is very easy to cause repeated infections.

2. What are the symptoms of infection?

The incubation period of rhinovirus is 2-5 days. The main symptoms after infection are runny nose, nasal congestion, sneezing, headache, mild sore throat, cough, and fever. There is currently no specific prevention and treatment method. The patient's condition is generally self-limiting, with mild symptoms and recovery in about a week.

3. How is rhinovirus transmitted?

Rhinovirus is mainly transmitted through air droplets and direct contact, and can also be indirectly transmitted through hands and objects contaminated by nasal and throat secretions. It can survive for several hours on daily necessities such as tableware, toys, towels, as well as on hands and door handles. Infants, the elderly and people with weakened immunity are susceptible to rhinovirus.

4. How to prevent rhinovirus infection?

There is currently no vaccine or specific medicine to prevent or treat rhinovirus infection.

Strengthening personal protection is an important means of preventing rhinovirus infection, including: paying attention to personal hand hygiene, such as not touching the eyes, nose, mouth and other parts with your hands after touching public items, wearing masks scientifically in crowded places, opening windows for ventilation in the room, regularly cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched door handles, light switches, tabletops, etc., eating a balanced diet, paying attention to hydration, maintaining a certain intake of vitamins and protein, exercising reasonably, getting adequate rest, and improving one's own immunity.