Can you catch a cold in summer?

What is a summer cold?

A summer cold is simply a common cold that develops during the warmer months. Like winter colds, it is usually caused by viruses, most commonly rhinoviruses and enteroviruses.

The symptoms are generally the same as those of a cold at any other time of year. However, because colds are less expected in summer, they can sometimes be mistaken for allergies or the flu.

Why do people get colds in summer?

People can get colds in summer because the viruses that cause colds circulate all year round, not just during winter.

Spending time in crowded places, travelling, and having close contact with other people also makes it easier for these viruses to spread.

Can hot weather itself make you ill?

Hot weather does not cause a cold. Colds are always caused by viruses.

However, very hot weather can leave you feeling tired, dehydrated, or generally unwell, which may make it harder to tell whether you have a viral infection.

Spending long periods in heavily air-conditioned environments may also dry out your nose and throat, although there is no evidence that air conditioning itself causes colds.

What are the symptoms of a summer cold?

Symptoms of a summer cold are similar to those of a winter cold.

Symptoms are usually mild and gradually improve over several days.

How to know if it's a summer cold or something else

Although summer colds are common, they aren't the only illness that can cause a runny nose, sore throat, or cough during the warmer months.

Allergies and flu can cause similar symptoms, so it's helpful to know the differences.

Summer cold vs flu

Although both are viral infections, flu usually develops more suddenly and causes more severe symptoms.

Summer cold vs allergies

Hay fever, the most common seasonal allergy, can easily be mistaken for a summer cold, particularly during periods of high pollen.

However, there are a few key differences that can help you tell them apart.

If you are at higher risk of severe illness or have concerns about your symptoms, seek medical advice.

How long does a summer cold last?

Most summer colds improve within 7 to 10 days, although a cough can sometimes continue for up to three weeks.

Symptoms should gradually improve rather than worsen. If they persist for longer than expected, become more severe, or are accompanied by chest pain, difficulty breathing, or a high fever that does not improve, seek medical advice.

How to treat a summer cold

There is no cure for the common cold, but symptoms can usually be managed at home.

Antibiotics do not work against viruses and are not recommended for treating a common cold.

Can you prevent a summer cold?

Although it is not always possible to avoid catching a cold there are some things you can do to reduce your risk.

Summary

• You can catch a cold during the summer, even though they are more common in winter. They are usually caused by viruses, not hot weather.

• Common symptoms include a runny or blocked nose, sneezing, and sore throat. Symptoms are usually mild and improve within 7 to 10 days.

• Most people recover with rest, fluids, and simple self-care measures, but persistent or severe symptoms should be assessed by a healthcare professional.