Which of the following viruses is responsible for the common cold?

MP CHO -2019 (Shift-2)

Microbiology

Easy

Appeared in: MP CHO -2019 (Shift-2)

Explanation

Rhinoviruses are the most frequent cause of the common cold, accounting for more than 50% of all cases in adults and children.
These viruses belong to the Picornaviridae family and are transmitted through direct contact with infected secretions or inhalation of respiratory droplets.
There are over 100 distinct serotypes of rhinovirus, which explains why individuals are susceptible to repeated infections throughout life.
The virus replicates best at the cooler temperatures found in the nasal passages (around 33–35°C), leading to prominent nasal symptoms like rhinorrhea (runny nose) and congestion.

Option B: The T4 virus is a bacteriophage, meaning it exclusively infects bacteria (specifically E. coli) and does not cause illness in humans. The image provided shows the classic structure of a bacteriophage.
Option C: MSZ virus is not a recognized or standard classification for a human pathogen, particularly one that causes respiratory infections like the common cold.
Option D: Pox viruses are a family of DNA viruses responsible for diseases like smallpox and molluscum contagiosum, which primarily manifest as skin lesions, not the upper respiratory symptoms of a common cold.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Etiology of the Common Cold as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Nurses play a crucial role in educating patients that the common cold is a viral infection and antibiotics are ineffective. This helps combat antibiotic resistance.
Patient education should focus on symptomatic relief: rest, hydration, and over-the-counter medications like decongestants or analgesics. Hand hygiene is the most effective preventive measure.
What if? If a patient with cold-like symptoms also presents with high fever, severe body aches, and fatigue, the nurse should suspect influenza. This would warrant different management, possibly including antiviral medication if diagnosed early.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the core of the question, which is to name the virus causing the 'common cold'.
Analyze the options provided. 'Rhino virus' is a strong candidate, as 'rhino' relates to the nose.
Evaluate the other options. A 'T4 virus' is a classic example of a bacteriophage, which infects bacteria, not humans. 'Pox virus' is known for causing smallpox. 'MSZ virus' is not a standard name.
Recognize that the image of the bacteriophage corresponds to the 'T4 virus' option and is a distractor, not the answer to the question about the common cold.
Based on factual recall of common respiratory pathogens, select Rhinovirus as the primary causative agent of the common cold.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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