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Rhinovirus is a small, non-enveloped virus that primarily causes the common cold, affecting millions of people annually worldwide. Unlike many viruses, rhinoviruses are highly contagious and spread easily through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. They have a simple structure consisting of a protein capsid enclosing their RNA genome, which is single-stranded and positive-sense. This allows the virus to quickly hijack host cell machinery for replication. Rhinoviruses are known for their genetic diversity, leading to numerous strains that can evade the immune system, making recurrent infections common. They typically cause mild symptoms like runny nose, sore throat, and congestion but can also lead to more severe conditions in individuals with weakened immune systems or underlying health issues.
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