Keep your guard up. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of Robitussin. A tip sheet on identifying 5 common respiratory infections 1. Common cold Technically called nasopharyngitis, it can be caused by dozens of viruses. All in several hours, with mild symptoms.
Most people can continue to work, but their energy drops.
Drainage from the nose and throat is usually clear and runny, lasting two or three days. Then it may thicken slightly, become a bit yellow or green and last a few more days. People usually feel much better by day five, but coughing and nasal drainage may last two weeks. This serious bacterial infection is technically streptococcal pharyngitis. It requires an antibiotic.