What Is a Rhinovirus Infection and How Is It Treated?

Written by Medicover Team and Medically Reviewed by Dr Vamsi Krishna Kedarisetti , General Medicine

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1. Causes 2. Find a Doctor 3. Diagnosis 4. Treatment 5. FAQs

Rhinovirus is a common viral infection and the leading cause of the common cold. It primarily affects the upper respiratory tract, including the nose and throat, and spreads easily from person to person.

Rhinoviruses belong to the Picornaviridae family and contain a single-stranded RNA genome. They are highly adaptable and include many different strains, which is one reason people can develop repeated rhinovirus infections throughout their lives.

Most infections are mild and improve without specific treatment. However, rhinovirus can cause more severe respiratory problems in young children, older adults and people with weakened immune systems, asthma or other chronic lung conditions.

What Are the Types of Rhinovirus?

Rhinoviruses are divided into three main species based on their genetic and biological characteristics.

Rhinovirus A: A common group of rhinoviruses associated with upper respiratory tract infections and common cold symptoms.
Rhinovirus B: Another well-studied group that generally causes mild respiratory illness.
Rhinovirus C: A group associated with respiratory infections and, in some cases, more severe illness, particularly in children and people with asthma.

The large number of rhinovirus strains and their different antigenic properties make the development of a universal vaccine challenging.

What Are the Symptoms of Rhinovirus Infection?

Rhinovirus symptoms usually develop within a few days after exposure. The severity and duration of symptoms can vary depending on age, immune response and underlying health conditions.

Nasal Congestion: Swelling of the nasal passages can cause a blocked or stuffy nose.
Runny Nose: Increased mucus production commonly causes clear nasal discharge.
Sore Throat: Irritation and inflammation may cause throat discomfort or pain.
Cough: Throat irritation and postnasal drainage may trigger coughing.
Sneezing: Irritation of the nasal passages can cause frequent sneezing.
Mild Headache: Nasal congestion and inflammation may contribute to headache.
Low-Grade Fever: Some people, particularly children, may develop a mild fever.
Fatigue: The immune response to infection can cause tiredness and reduced energy.

Rhinovirus infections can also worsen asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in susceptible individuals.

What Causes Rhinovirus Infection?

Rhinovirus infection occurs when the virus enters the body and infects cells lining the respiratory tract. The infection spreads easily through respiratory particles, direct contact and contaminated hands or surfaces.

Respiratory Droplets and Particles

An infected person can release virus-containing respiratory particles when coughing, sneezing, talking or breathing. Other people may become infected after inhaling these particles.

Direct Contact

Close contact with an infected person can spread rhinovirus, particularly when contaminated hands come into contact with the nose, mouth or eyes.

Contaminated Surfaces

The virus can spread when a person touches a contaminated object or surface and then touches the face without washing the hands.

Seasonal Factors

Rhinovirus infections occur throughout the year but are often more common during certain seasons. Increased indoor contact and environmental conditions may contribute to transmission.

How Does Rhinovirus Affect the Body?

After entering the respiratory tract, rhinovirus attaches to receptors on cells lining the airways and begins to replicate. The immune system responds by releasing inflammatory substances, which contribute to nasal congestion, mucus production, sore throat and other common symptoms.

When Should You See a Doctor for Rhinovirus Infection?

Most rhinovirus infections improve with rest and supportive care. Medical evaluation by a General Physician or Pulmonologist is recommended when symptoms are severe, persist longer than expected, or suggest a complication or worsening of an underlying respiratory condition.

You should see a doctor if you have:

Symptoms that persist, worsen or return after initial improvement
High or persistent fever, severe sinus pain or worsening cough
Worsening asthma, COPD or another chronic respiratory condition

Get medical help immediately if:

Severe difficulty breathing or rapidly worsening shortness of breath
Chest pain, confusion or unusual drowsiness develops
Lips, face or fingertips appear blue or grey

These could be signs of a serious complication like a lower respiratory infection, which needs urgent care.

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How Is Rhinovirus Infection Diagnosed?

Rhinovirus infection is usually diagnosed based on symptoms, medical history and a physical examination. Laboratory testing is generally unnecessary for mild cases but may be recommended for severe illness or people at increased risk of complications.

Medical History and Physical Examination

The doctor may ask about symptoms, recent exposure to respiratory infections and underlying health conditions. The nose, throat and lungs may be examined for signs of infection or complications.

PCR Testing

Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing can detect rhinovirus genetic material in respiratory samples. It may be used in severe cases, hospital settings or when identifying the specific cause of respiratory illness is important.

Respiratory Panel Testing

A respiratory sample may be tested for several viruses at the same time when symptoms could be caused by different respiratory infections.

Additional Tests

Further tests may be recommended if a doctor suspects pneumonia, sinusitis, worsening asthma or another complication.

How Is Rhinovirus Infection Treated?

There is no specific antiviral treatment routinely used for rhinovirus infection. Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms, maintaining hydration and allowing the immune system to clear the infection.

Rest and Hydration

Adequate rest supports recovery, while drinking enough fluids can help prevent dehydration and keep mucus easier to clear.

Saline Nasal Sprays

Saline sprays or rinses can help moisturize the nasal passages, loosen mucus and relieve congestion.

Decongestants

Decongestants may provide temporary relief from nasal congestion. Nasal decongestant sprays should not be used longer than recommended because prolonged use can cause rebound congestion.

Pain and Fever Relief

Appropriate pain-relieving medicines may help manage headaches, body aches and fever. Medicines such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen should be used as directed.

Managing Underlying Respiratory Conditions

People with asthma, COPD or other chronic respiratory conditions should follow their prescribed treatment plan and seek medical advice if symptoms worsen.

Avoiding Respiratory Irritants

Smoke, air pollution and strong chemical fumes can worsen respiratory symptoms and should be avoided during recovery.

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What Are the Risk Factors for Rhinovirus Infection?

Anyone can develop a rhinovirus infection, but certain factors can increase the likelihood of infection or more severe symptoms.

Young Age: Children are frequently exposed to rhinoviruses and may develop repeated infections.
Weakened Immune System: Reduced immune function can increase the risk of prolonged or severe illness.
Asthma: Rhinovirus can trigger wheezing and asthma exacerbations.
Chronic Lung Disease: People with COPD or other respiratory conditions may experience more severe symptoms.
Close Contact: Schools, childcare centres, workplaces and crowded settings can facilitate viral transmission.
Poor Hand Hygiene: Touching the face with contaminated hands can introduce the virus into the body.

What Are the Complications of Rhinovirus Infection?

Most rhinovirus infections resolve without complications. However, the infection can occasionally contribute to more serious respiratory problems, particularly in vulnerable individuals.

Sinusitis: Persistent inflammation can affect the sinuses and cause facial pain or pressure.
Middle Ear Infection: Children may develop otitis media following a respiratory infection.
Asthma Exacerbation: Rhinovirus is a common trigger of worsening asthma symptoms.
COPD Exacerbation: Infection may worsen coughing, mucus production and breathing difficulty.
Lower Respiratory Tract Infection: In some people, infection can affect the lower airways and contribute to more serious respiratory illness.

How Can Rhinovirus Infection Be Prevented?

There is currently no widely available vaccine that prevents all rhinovirus infections. Preventive measures focus on reducing exposure and limiting the spread of respiratory viruses.

Wash Your Hands Regularly

Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water, especially after coughing, sneezing or touching frequently used surfaces.

Follow Respiratory Hygiene

Cover the mouth and nose with a tissue or the elbow when coughing or sneezing, and dispose of used tissues promptly.

Avoid Touching Your Face

Reducing contact with the eyes, nose and mouth can lower the chance of transferring the virus from contaminated hands.

Clean Frequently Touched Surfaces

Regular cleaning of commonly touched objects and surfaces may help reduce viral transmission in shared spaces.

Improve Indoor Ventilation

Increasing fresh airflow in indoor spaces can help reduce the concentration of respiratory particles.

Avoid Close Contact When Sick

Limiting close contact with others while symptoms are present can help prevent the spread of infection.

What Is the Outlook for Rhinovirus Infection?

Most people recover from rhinovirus infection within several days to about two weeks without specific medical treatment. Symptoms such as cough or nasal congestion may occasionally last longer.

People with asthma, COPD, weakened immune systems or other chronic health conditions may require closer monitoring because rhinovirus can worsen underlying respiratory problems. Seeking medical care for severe or persistent symptoms can help identify and manage complications early.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the symptoms of a rhinovirus infection?

Symptoms include a runny or stuffy nose, sneezing, sore throat, cough, headache, and mild body aches. Some people may also develop a low-grade fever.

2. What causes rhinovirus infections?

Rhinovirus infections are caused by rhinoviruses, which spread through respiratory droplets, close contact with an infected person, or touching contaminated surfaces and then touching the eyes, nose, or mouth.

3. How is rhinovirus infection diagnosed?

Diagnosis is usually based on symptoms and a physical examination. Laboratory tests, such as a nasal swab with PCR testing, may be used in severe cases or when confirming the specific virus is important.

4. How is rhinovirus treated?

There is no specific antiviral cure for most rhinovirus infections. Treatment focuses on rest, adequate fluids, saline nasal sprays, and appropriate over-the-counter medications to relieve pain, fever, or congestion.

5. How can rhinovirus infections be prevented?

Wash hands frequently, avoid touching the face with unwashed hands, avoid close contact with people who are sick, cover coughs and sneezes, and clean frequently touched surfaces.

6. How long does rhinovirus last?

Most rhinovirus infections improve within 7 to 10 days, although cough or nasal symptoms may sometimes last for up to two weeks.

7. Are rhinovirus and RSV the same thing?

No. Rhinovirus and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) are different viruses. Rhinovirus is the most common cause of the common cold, while RSV can cause more serious lower respiratory infections, especially in infants and older adults.