What causes a common cold?

The common cold is caused by a virus, a distinct family of viruses actually from things like influenza and other viral pathogens. These are referred to as either rhino viruses or corona viruses by physicians. And unfortunately, there is very little we can do for the common cold. The viruses, they are not responsive to antibiotics typically and they just have to run their course. Sometimes 10 to 14 days, runny nose and relatively mild symptoms. You might have a mild fever, you might feel a little run down, but certainly you can usually work through a common cold.