Summer Sniffles: Why You Can Catch a Cold Even When It’s Warm

Imagine this: it's a beautiful summer day, the sky is clear, and the sun is shining brightly. Unfortunately, you're stuck inside with a runny nose, sore throat, and a pounding headache. What gives?

Despite popular belief, colds aren't just a wintertime nuisance. Cold viruses circulate all year, meaning you can get sick during any season, including summer. Here’s what you need to know if you find yourself browsing the drugstore aisles for cold remedies in the middle of June.

What is a Summer Cold?

A summer cold is exactly what it sounds like—a common cold that occurs during the summer months. While winter colds are more frequent due to people spending more time indoors in close quarters, summer colds are still possible and can be just as unpleasant.

Causes of Summer Colds

Over 200 different viruses can cause colds, and these viruses spread easily through sneezes, coughs, and close contact with infected individuals. Rhinoviruses are typically behind winter colds, bringing on those familiar upper respiratory symptoms like stuffy and runny noses.

However, enteroviruses are more often to blame for summer colds. These viruses also affect the nose and throat but are more likely to cause digestive symptoms such as diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting. Enteroviruses can sicken millions each year, with infections peaking during the summer months through October.

Symptoms of a Summer Cold

Summer colds can impact both your respiratory and digestive systems. Respiratory symptoms include:

Cough

Fever and body aches

Headache

Runny nose

Sore throat

Digestive symptoms may include:

Diarrhea

Nausea and vomiting

Upset stomach

Distinguishing Summer Colds from Other Illnesses

Cold symptoms can overlap with those of allergies, COVID-19, the flu, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), making it tricky to identify the cause of your discomfort.

Summer Cold vs. COVID-19

It's a good idea to test for COVID-19 if you experience upper respiratory symptoms, regardless of the season. If you test positive, consult a healthcare provider for treatment options and take steps to prevent spreading the virus.

Summer Cold vs. Allergies

If you consistently have a runny nose, sore throat, and watery eyes every summer, allergies might be the culprit. Summer cold symptoms typically improve within two weeks. If your symptoms persist longer, allergies are likely to blame. Additionally, allergies don’t usually cause digestive symptoms like diarrhea or an upset stomach.

Summer Cold vs. Summer Flu

Flu symptoms tend to be more severe than cold symptoms and can become life-threatening. Although flu season is typically from October to April, it’s not impossible to catch the flu in the summer, especially if you've traveled to a region where the flu season is different. Flu tests and antiviral treatments are available and most effective when started within 48 hours of symptom onset.

Summer Cold vs. RSV

RSV primarily causes cold-like symptoms but can be dangerous for infants, young children, and older adults. Though more common in winter, RSV cases can increase during summer. Most RSV cases are mild, but some may require hospitalization for IV fluids and oxygen.

Given the variety of viruses circulating year-round, it's recommended to test for COVID-19, flu, and RSV to ensure appropriate treatment and reduce the risk of complications.

Remedies for Summer Cold Symptoms

The same remedies that help with winter colds can alleviate summer cold symptoms. Here are some tips:

Follow the BRAT diet (bananas, rice, applesauce, toast) to ease digestive issues.

Gargle with salt water to soothe a sore throat.

Stay hydrated with water, electrolyte drinks, and tea.

Use cough medications and take a hot shower or bath before bed to relieve nighttime coughing.

Soothe your throat and cough with honey.

Get plenty of rest.

Use saline nasal sprays and humidifiers to clear phlegm and mucus.

Preventing Summer Colds

To avoid catching or spreading a summer cold, follow these steps:

Avoid touching your face, especially your eyes, nose, and mouth.

Regularly disinfect your home and frequently touched surfaces.

Isolate yourself from others until your fever breaks.

Cough or sneeze into your elbow, not your hands.

Wash your hands thoroughly with warm water and soap or use hand sanitizer.

Wear a face mask when around other people.

While summer colds can put a damper on your sunny days, the good news is that symptoms are usually short-lived. With these tips, you’ll be back to enjoying your summer, sniffle-free, in no time.