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Common Cold May Block COVID-19, Study Finds
29 Nov
Summary
- Rhinovirus infection linked to 48% lower COVID-19 risk.
- Colds might offer protection due to immune system familiarity.
- Children show more protection due to frequent rhinovirus infections.
A recent study suggests that common colds might provide a degree of protection against COVID-19 infection. Researchers found that individuals who had a rhinovirus infection within the past 30 days were 48% less likely to become infected with COVID-19. This phenomenon may stem from the immune system recognizing similarities between cold-causing viruses and SARS-CoV-2.
Children, who experience more frequent rhinovirus infections, appear to gain greater antiviral protection. This could explain why children generally experience milder COVID-19 symptoms compared to adults. Even for those who contracted COVID-19 after a cold, a lower viral load was observed, suggesting potentially less severe illness.
While the findings are intriguing, experts caution against intentional exposure to colds. The long-term effects of this immunity are unknown, and healthier immune function is best achieved through established methods like sleep, stress management, exercise, and a nutrient-rich diet, alongside vaccination.
