Frequency of attack increases again during the early school years because the new environment contains new types of virus. To some extent, the symptoms depend on the virus responsible for the cold. The nasal discharge begins by being rather watery, then becomes thick and greenish in colour. A very high temperature and general body pains are more likely to be symptoms of influenza. Everyone will get an occasional cold - throughout life.
Nobody is quite sure how colds are caught.
Anyone with a cold should stay at home and, if convenient, in isolation. This is chiefly for the sake of other people. Consult your doctor only if the cold lasts over 10 days, or if it seems that infection has spread, or if you are prone to bronchitis or ear infections. Professional help - Elderly people and those with chronic lung or heart disease are at increased risk from influenza and winter chest infections. Immunisation against influenza gives useful protection to such people.