Common cold viruses appear to be returning to pre-pandemic levels of circulation. Adenovirus in particular is more common this summer than last, writes Aria Bendix, on NBCnews.com.
After retreating during the pandemic, colds are back in full force in some parts of the U.S. this summer.
Rhinoviruses — the most frequent cause of the common cold — circulate year-round, but summer gatherings such as weddings, barbecues and graduations may have accelerated their spread, according to disease experts.
“It’s ridiculous how much you see it in the summer,” Dr. Michelle Barron, senior medical director of infection prevention and control at UCHealth in Colorado, said of rhinovirus.
On top of that, the U.S. is seeing a considerable uptick in adenovirus infections, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Adenoviruses usually cause mild respiratory illness, including common cold symptoms such as fever or sore throat. The viruses can also cause pink eye, diarrhea and skin rashes.
Read the full article on NBC News.
