
Kann man sich im Sommer erkälten?
Begutachtet von Dr Colin Tidy, MRCGPZuletzt aktualisiert von Josh AldermanZuletzt aktualisiert 29. Jul 2026
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Colds are often associated with autumn and winter, but you can catch one at any time of year. Although they are less common during the warmer months, the viruses that cause colds continue to circulate throughout the summer. Most summer colds are mild and get better on their own within a week or two.
Explore relief for cold and flu symptoms
Erhalten Sie fachkundige medizinische Beratung bequem von zu Hause aus. Füllen Sie eine kurze Online-Konsultation aus, die rund um die Uhr verfügbar ist. Ihre Anfrage wird von einer in Großbritannien registrierten medizinischen Fachkraft geprüft. Für ausgewählte Behandlungen ist eine Lieferung am nächsten Tag möglich.
What is a summer cold?
A summer cold is simply a Erkältung 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.
You may be more likely to catch a summer cold because of:
Close contact with other people while travelling.
Festivals, concerts, and other crowded events.
Spending time in air-conditioned indoor spaces.
Children bringing viruses home from school, nurseries, or holiday clubs.
Touching contaminated surfaces before touching your eyes, nose, or mouth.
Seasonal viruses, such as enteroviruses, which are more common during the summer.
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.
They may include:
A runny or blocked nose.
Niesen.
Halsschmerzen.
Husten.
Mild headache.
Sich müde fühlen.
A mild fever, particularly in children.
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, Grippe usually develops more suddenly and causes more severe symptoms.
Summer cold | Grippe |
|---|---|
Symptoms develop gradually | Symptoms begin suddenly |
Runny nose and sore throat are common | High fever and muscle aches are more common |
Usually mild | Often causes severe illness and exhaustion |
Most people recover within 7 to 10 days | Recovery may take several weeks |
Summer cold vs allergies
Heuschnupfen, 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.
Summer cold | Allergien |
|---|---|
Caused by a virus | Triggered by allergens such as pollen |
Usually lasts 7 to 10 days | Symptoms continue while exposed to allergens |
Sore throat is common | Itchy eyes and nose are common |
Fever is possible | Fever does not occur |
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 hohes Fieber 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.
You can help relieve symptoms by:
Getting plenty of rest.
Drinking enough fluids to stay hydrated.
Nehmen Paracetamol or ibuprofen if suitable to reduce pain or fever.
Using saline nasal sprays or drops to relieve nasal congestion.
Sucking throat lozenges or drinking warm fluids to soothe a sore throat.
Eating regular, nutritious meals if you feel able.
Antibiotika 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.
Dazu gehören:
Washing your hands regularly with soap and water.
Avoiding touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
Covering your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.
Cleaning frequently touched surfaces.
Avoiding close contact with people who are unwell where possible.
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including getting enough sleep, eating a balanced diet, and staying physically active.
Zusammenfassung
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.
Explore relief for cold and flu symptoms
Erhalten Sie fachkundige medizinische Beratung bequem von zu Hause aus. Füllen Sie eine kurze Online-Konsultation aus, die rund um die Uhr verfügbar ist. Ihre Anfrage wird von einer in Großbritannien registrierten medizinischen Fachkraft geprüft. Für ausgewählte Behandlungen ist eine Lieferung am nächsten Tag möglich.
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Über den RezensentenVollständige Biografie anzeigen

Dr Colin Tidy, MRCGP
Allgemeinmediziner, Medizinischer Autor
MBBS, MRCGP, MRCP (Paediatrics), DCH
Dr. Colin Tidy ist ein NHS-Arzt mit Sitz in Oxfordshire.
Artikelverlauf
Artikel auch verfügbar in Englisch, Deutsch, Spanisch, Französisch, Italienisch, Portugiesisch, Hindi, Hebräisch, Arabisch, und Schwedisch.
Next review due: 29 Jul 2029
29. Jul 2026 | Neueste Version
1. Juli 2019 | Ursprünglich veröffentlicht
Verfasst von:
Dr. Sarah Jarvis
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