Fever with rhinovirus: what to know

The virus spreads through respiratory droplets and contaminated hands or surfaces. Mucus may become thicker as the illness changes, which does not by itself prove a bacterial infection. Fever can be more noticeable in children, while adults may mainly have congestion, throat irritation and tiredness. People with asthma or chronic lung disease may develop worsening wheeze after a cold.

A clinician may consider other respiratory causes when fever is high or prolonged, breathing becomes difficult, or symptoms improve and then worsen. Bronchiolitis and croup are more relevant in young children, while COVID-19 can have overlapping symptoms.

Rest, drink fluids in small frequent amounts, and use saline drops or spray for a blocked nose if suitable. Warm drinks may soothe the throat. Wash hands, ventilate shared spaces, cover coughs, and avoid close contact with vulnerable people while unwell. Use fever medicine only as directed for the person's age and health; do not combine products with the same ingredient.

Get emergency help for severe breathing difficulty, blue or grey lips, confusion, collapse, or inability to wake normally. Seek prompt advice if a child is struggling to feed, has fewer wet nappies, or is breathing with persistent effort. Arrange a review for worsening wheeze, chest pain, dehydration, a fever that does not settle, or symptoms that return after improvement.

Could another respiratory infection explain these symptoms? Is the person's asthma or lung condition being affected? Which fluids, nasal treatments or fever medicine are appropriate, and how should breathing be monitored?