US Common Cold Cases Peaked in Mid-May as Spring Viruses Still Circulate
Updated
Updated · BuzzFeed · Jun 6
US Common Cold Cases Peaked in Mid-May as Spring Viruses Still Circulate
3 articles · Updated · BuzzFeed · Jun 6
Summary
Mid-May marked the U.S. peak for common colds, with CDC data and Your Local Epidemiologist showing spring viruses drove a recent wave of illness.
Rhinovirus and Enterovirus rates are now declining, but doctors said transmission has not dropped to summer lows and people can still get sick.
Fever and poor response to antihistamines point more to a cold than allergies, though physicians said some people can have both at once during pollen season.
Summer should bring fewer cases as schools let out and more activity shifts outdoors, reducing indoor spread; doctors expect another cold peak in the fall.
Hand-washing, avoiding people who are coughing or sneezing, and staying home when ill remain key because colds can still seriously affect children with asthma, immunocompromised people and others with underlying conditions.