Rhinovirus-Induced Acute Infectious Rhinitis

Description of the Disease

Rhinovirus-induced acute infectious rhinitis is an acute viral infection of the upper respiratory tract characterized by inflammation of the nasal mucosa, runny nose, and a low-grade fever.

Causative Agent

The infection is caused by rhinoviruses. More than 100 rhinovirus serotypes have been identified, and there is little to no cross-immunity between them, making repeated infections common.

Epidemiology

Rhinovirus infection is one of the most common acute upper respiratory tract infections. Most people experience at least one infection each year, while children under 5 years of age are infected even more frequently. During the autumn months, rhinoviruses are responsible for approximately half of all common colds. The source of infection is an infected person, who remains contagious for approximately 5–9 days. Transmission occurs through respiratory droplets or by direct contact with contaminated hands or objects.

Symptoms

Symptoms usually develop 1–6 days after exposure to the virus. The clinical presentation ranges from mild nasal congestion to severe rhinitis and may occasionally be accompanied by laryngitis or tracheobronchitis. The illness typically begins suddenly with sneezing and nasal congestion, followed by a runny nose. A low-grade fever, mild headache, and muscle aches are common. After several days, the nasal discharge usually becomes thicker. The illness is generally self-limiting and resolves within 6–7 days.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis is based primarily on the patient’s clinical symptoms and physical examination.

Treatment

There is no specific antiviral treatment for rhinovirus infection. Nasal congestion may be relieved with topical nasal decongestants or anticholinergic agents. Saline or filtered seawater nasal sprays are recommended for nasal hygiene and symptom relief.

Supportive treatment is the mainstay of management. Some countries also use non-specific antiviral products intended to reduce viral replication and relieve common cold symptoms, although their effectiveness may vary.

Prevention

There is currently no vaccine against rhinoviruses. Preventive measures include good hand hygiene, avoiding close contact with individuals who have respiratory infections, and practicing appropriate respiratory hygiene. When possible, infected individuals should remain at home or minimize close contact with others until they recover.

Source | Author Doctor Nikas Samuolis, reviewed by Prof. Virginijus Šapoka | Vilnius University | Faculty of Medicine | Head of the Department of Internal Medicine, Family Medicine, and Oncology