CREATE AN IMAGE ABOUT THIS COMMON COLD PROCESS 1. Initial Infection The cycle be

CREATE AN IMAGE ABOUT THIS COMMON COLD PROCESS 1. Initial Infection The cycle begins with exposure to one of the many viruses that cause the common cold., Rhinoviruses being the most common. Transmission usually occurs through: Direct contact: By touching contaminated surfaces and then touching your face. aerosol sprays: By inhaling small droplets expelled by an infected person when coughing or sneezing. Once the virus enters the body, adheres to epithelial cells of the upper respiratory tract. 2. Viral Replication After Attachment, The virus enters the cells and begins to replicate.. This process can take between 24 and 72 hours after initial exposure.. During this phase: Infected cells begin to produce new viral particles. The immune system detects the presence of the virus and begins to respond. 3. Initial Symptoms Initial symptoms usually appear between 1 and 3 days after infection.. These may include: Nasal congestion Sneezing Sore throat Mild cough These symptoms are caused by both viral replication and the inflammatory response of the immune system. 4. Progression of Symptoms As the infection progresses, Symptoms may intensify and last between 7 and 10 days. Additional symptoms may include: Runny nose (which can turn yellow or green) Fatigue Malaise Mild fever (In some cases) During this phase, the body continues to fight the virus, which can cause an increase in the production of mucus and other bodily fluids. 5. Resolution Most people recover completely without complications in about a week to ten days.. The immune system effectively eliminates the virus, and the symptoms begin to gradually subside. However, Some people may experience persistent cough or congestion for an additional time due to residual irritation in the lungs.