Summer Cold Virus Overview and Treatments
What is a summer cold? Learn about the viruses that cause it, common symptoms, and effective treatment options to help you recover from a summer cold faster.
Summer is usually associated with sunshine, vacations, and outdoor fun. But did you know that colds can strike even in warm weather? Unlike winter colds caused by rhinoviruses, summer colds are often triggered by different viruses, such as enteroviruses. These viruses thrive in warmer temperatures and can leave you feeling miserable when you least expect it.
If you’ve ever had a summer cold, you know how frustrating it can be—sneezing, coughing, and congestion when you’d rather be enjoying the season. The good news is that most summer colds are mild and resolve on their own. However, knowing how to recognize, manage, and prevent them can help you recover faster and stay healthy.
In this article, we’ll discuss:
What causes summer colds
Common symptoms
How they differ from winter colds
Treatment and home remedies
Prevention tips
When to see a doctor
Let’s dive in!
What Causes a Summer Cold?
While winter colds are mostly caused by rhinoviruses, summer colds are often due to enteroviruses. These viruses spread easily in warm, humid conditions and can infect people through:
Close contact with an infected person (e.g., hugging, shaking hands)
Respiratory droplets (when someone coughs or sneezes near you)
Contaminated surfaces (doorknobs, shared utensils)
Swimming pools (enteroviruses can survive in water)
Unlike flu season, which peaks in winter, summer colds are less predictable but still common, especially in crowded places or among children in summer camps.
Symptoms of a Summer Cold
Summer cold symptoms are similar to winter colds but may include some unique features:
Sore throat – Often the first sign
Runny or stuffy nose – Clear mucus (unlike thicker winter cold mucus)
Coughing – Usually mild but persistent
Sneezing – Frequent and irritating
Mild fever – More common in children
Body aches – Less severe than flu
Fatigue – Feeling unusually tired
Gastrointestinal issues (sometimes) – Enteroviruses can cause stomach discomfort
Unlike the flu, summer colds rarely cause high fever or severe body pain. However, symptoms can last 7-10 days, sometimes longer.
How is a Summer Cold Different from a Winter Cold?
There are many ways summer cold and winter cold are different:
| Feature | Summer Cold | Winter Cold |
| Main Virus | Enteroviruses | Rhinoviruses |
| Season | Late spring to summer | Fall and winter |
| Symptoms | More likely to include sore throat, mild fever, and stomach issues | More nasal congestion, thicker mucus |
| Duration | 7–10 days, sometimes longer | 7–14 days |
| Spread | Through close contact, contaminated surfaces, and swimming pools | Mostly through respiratory droplets |
How to Treat a Summer Cold?
Since summer colds are caused by viruses, antibiotics won’t help. Instead, focus on relieving symptoms while your immune system fights the infection.
1. Home Remedies & SelfCare
Stay Hydrated – Drink plenty of water, herbal teas, or warm broths to loosen mucus.
Rest – Your body heals faster when well rested.
Saltwater Gargle – Soothes a sore throat (mix ½ tsp salt in warm water).
Steam Inhalation – Helps clear nasal congestion (use a humidifier or inhale steam from hot water).
Honey & Lemon – A natural cough suppressant (mix in warm water).
2. Over the Counter (OTC) Medications
Pain Relievers – Paracetamol or ibuprofen for fever and body aches.
Decongestants – Helps with a stuffy nose (use sparingly).
Antihistamines – May reduce sneezing and runny nose.
Avoid giving aspirin to children (risk of Reye’s syndrome).
3. Foods to Eat & Avoid
Eat: Vitamin Crich fruits (oranges, kiwi), ginger tea, chicken soup.
Avoid: Dairy (can thicken mucus), sugary drinks, processed foods.
How to Prevent a Summer Cold?
Since summer colds spread easily, prevention is key:
Wash Hands Frequently – Use soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
Avoid Touching Your Face – Reduces virus entry through eyes, nose, or mouth.
Disinfect Surfaces – Clean doorknobs, phones, and shared items.
Stay Away from Sick People – If someone is coughing/sneezing, keep a distance.
Don’t Share Utensils/Drinks – Viruses spread through saliva.
Boost Immunity – Eat a balanced diet, exercise, and get enough sleep.
Consult a Top General Physician for the best advice
When to See a Doctor?
Most summer colds go away on their own, but consult a doctor if:
High fever (above 101°F) lasting more than 3 days
Difficulty breathing or chest pain
Severe headache or sinus pain
Symptoms worsen after a week
Signs of dehydration (dizziness, dry mouth, low urine output)
If you or your child have persistent symptoms, it’s best to get checked. You can book a consultation with Apollo24|7 doctors for expert advice and treatment.
Final Thoughts
A summer cold can put a damper on your sunny days, but with proper care, you’ll recover soon. Remember:
Rest and hydration are your best friends.
OTC meds can help, but avoid unnecessary antibiotics.
Prevention (handwashing, avoiding sick people) is better than cure.
If symptoms persist or worsen, don’t hesitate to seek medical help. Stay healthy and enjoy your summer!
Need expert advice? Book a doctor consultation on Apollo24|7 today for personalized care. Stay safe and beat the summer cold!
Consult a Top General Physician
Consult a Top General Physician for the best advice
Dr Vinay Kumar A V
Nephrologist
8 Years • MBBS, MD - General Medicine, DM - Nephrology
Bilaspur
Apollo Hospitals Seepat Road, Bilaspur
Dr. V K Aneja
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
38 Years • MBBS, MD (Med.)
Delhi
Apollo Hospitals Indraprastha, Delhi
(75+ Patients)
Dr. Indrajit Das
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
4 Years • "MD (Internal medicine) : Gauhati Medical College and Hospital, Guwahati (2018-2021) MD (Pathology) : Gauhati Medical College and Hospital, Guwahati (2012-2015) MBBS (Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery) : Silchar Medical College, Assam (2003-2008) "
Guwahati
Apollo Excelcare Hospital, Guwahati
Dr. Shakti
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
25 Years • MBBS, DNB, PGDHIVM, MRCP (UK)
Delhi
Apollo Hospitals Indraprastha, Delhi
(250+ Patients)
Dr. Hariprasath J
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
19 Years • MD (Gen Med), FCCP, Dip (Diabetology, UK)
Chennai
Apollo First Med Hospitals P H Road, Chennai
(200+ Patients)
Consult a Top General Physician
Dr Vinay Kumar A V
Nephrologist
8 Years • MBBS, MD - General Medicine, DM - Nephrology
Bilaspur
Apollo Hospitals Seepat Road, Bilaspur
Dr. V K Aneja
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
38 Years • MBBS, MD (Med.)
Delhi
Apollo Hospitals Indraprastha, Delhi
(75+ Patients)
Dr. Indrajit Das
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
4 Years • "MD (Internal medicine) : Gauhati Medical College and Hospital, Guwahati (2018-2021) MD (Pathology) : Gauhati Medical College and Hospital, Guwahati (2012-2015) MBBS (Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery) : Silchar Medical College, Assam (2003-2008) "
Guwahati
Apollo Excelcare Hospital, Guwahati
Dr. Shakti
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
25 Years • MBBS, DNB, PGDHIVM, MRCP (UK)
Delhi
Apollo Hospitals Indraprastha, Delhi
(250+ Patients)
Dr. Hariprasath J
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
19 Years • MD (Gen Med), FCCP, Dip (Diabetology, UK)
Chennai
Apollo First Med Hospitals P H Road, Chennai
(200+ Patients)
