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.
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.
Symptoms of a summer cold are similar to those of a winter cold.
Symptoms are usually mild and gradually improve over several days.
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
Flu
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
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.
Summer cold
Allergies
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.
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.
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.
-
Taking 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.
Antibiotics do not work against viruses and are not recommended for treating a common cold.
Although it is not always possible to avoid catching a cold there are some things you can do to reduce your risk.
These include:
-
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.
-
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.
