TED Health
Why is it so hard to cure the common cold? | George Zaidan
May 28, 2024
George Zaidan, narrator of TED-Ed lesson on common cold viruses, discusses the complexities of curing the common cold and the immune response. He explores challenges in developing vaccines and antiviral drugs, compares progress with mRNA COVID vaccines, and talks about innovative health products like the GLP1 probiotic.
06:05
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Quick takeaways
- The common cold is caused by multiple virus families, each with its own subtypes, making a universal cure challenging.
- Efforts to develop effective treatments against the common cold are hindered by rapid virus mutation and the virus's multiple subtypes.
Deep dives
The Challenge of Treating the Common Cold
Despite significant medical advancements, the common cold caused by rhinoviruses remains elusive to vaccines and antiviral drugs. Clinical trials of placental, a potential treatment, showed rapid virus mutation, rendering the medication ineffective. Individuals with compromised immune systems face higher risks from cold infections, highlighting the urgency for effective remedies against rapidly mutating viruses like rhinovirus.
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