Common Cold
There are over 250 different kinds of common cold viruses! But Rhinovirus is by far the most common. Rhinovirus causes 35% of colds and it can survive for three hours outside someone’s nose!
The best thing you can do to lower your chances of catching the common cold is to wash your hands – a lot!
Cough
Coughs are very common and can be triggered by a variety of factors including smoking, allergies, and even heartburn. But many coughs, particularly in young children, are caused by microbes.
While common cold and flu viruses can cause ordinary coughs, B. pertussis bacteria causes “whooping cough,” a serious cough that can go on for over 6 weeks.
Ear Ache
Ear aches are one of the most common health ailments found in young children - and most are caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae bacteria.
As the number one cause of emergency admission each year (and the number two cause of regular doctor visits), ear aches are also responsible for more antibiotic prescriptions than any other condition.
Sore Throat
Streptococcus bacteria cause about 15% of sore throats; viruses cause most of the rest!
Strep throat symptoms include sudden fever, stomach aches, and swollen glands. Fortunately, strep throats can be cured easily with antibiotics such as penicillin. If you have strep throat symptoms that last for several days, you should probably consult a physician.
Cavity
Everyone knows that sugar is bad for your teeth. But why is that so? Because Streptococcus mutans bacteria love to eat it!
S. mutans is the leading cause of tooth decay and a primary component of dental plaque. By eating sugars such as fructose, lactose, and glucose, S. mutans creates lactic acid that dissolves the minerals that make up your teeth. As these minerals dissolve, holes – or cavities – are created.
