As the peak-season for common cold viruses begins to wind down this month, to be succeeded by the flu season after, going in for annual flu vaccines becomes the trend. So why does influenza have a vaccine but not the other viruses that cause us the cold?
Dr. Jonathan Gubbay of the University of Toronto explains why there is still no cure for the common cold. According to him, the common cold is an infection of the upper respiratory tract, caused by any one of numerous viruses-each with multiple variations. That means to say: finding a perfect target for a vaccine with such a huge number of potential suspects would be like winning a lottery.
Colds can also lead to more severe illnesses such as asthma, underlying heart disease, diabetes, obesity and weakened immune system.
Dr. Keri Peterson, an internist at Lenox Hill Hospital in New York City warns and reminds everyone about the common culprit: "The key thing to know about a cold is it is viral...there is no cure."
However, Dr. Peterson gives us hope with her suggestion on how to lessen the cold's sting: take zinc to help boost the immune system and shorten its duration. Putting zinc on the back of the throat inhibits the cold viruses from replicating. It might not eliminate cold, but it can shorten the misery. She also suggests washing hands with soap and water instead of hand sanitizer, avoiding shaking hands and touching the face, nose and mouth.
Two other experts also revealed to Huffington Post some foods that can boost the immune system in time for the cold season:
- Chicken broth - heals the lining of the gut and contains minerals and amino acids that help reduce inflammation
- Fermented food - has good live bacteria; e.g. yogurt, kimchi, kombucha tea
- Unpasteurized honey - has zinc, vitamin B and antioxidants
- Lemon, ginger, cinnamon
