This graphic examines the colds that many of us suffer from at this time of year, highlighting the viruses that cause colds and flu and their varying characteristics. Originally published just before the COVID-19 pandemic – remember when we didn’t all know what a coronavirus was? – it continues to be topical with the current surges in flu cases this winter.

It’s that time of year where a fair few of us (in the Northern Hemisphere, at least) are probably suffering from a cold of some description. The common symptom, that of a blocked nose, is probably one of the most irritating, but thankfully, nasal decongestants exist to provide relief. But how do they work?
