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TED-Ed

Why is it so hard to cure the common cold?

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4,827 Questions Answered

TEDEd Animation

Let’s Begin…

On average, adults catch more than 150 colds throughout their lives. Even with similar symptoms, the cause could be different each time. Common colds are caused by at least 8 different families of virus, each of which can have its own subtypes. How can so many different viruses cause the same illness? And is a cure even possible? Explore the two main strategies we employ to fight viruses.

Watch the video and finish the Think section to complete the lesson.


About TED-Ed Animations

TED-Ed Animations feature the words and ideas of educators brought to life by professional animators. Are you an educator or animator interested in creating a TED-Ed Animation? Nominate yourself here »

Meet The Creators

Director
Anton Bogaty
Script Writer
George Zaidan
Narrator
George Zaidan
Sound Designer
Nikola Radivojevic
Director of Production
Gerta Xhelo
Producer
Alexandra Zubak
Associate Producer
Sazia Afrin
Editorial Director
Alex Rosenthal
Editorial Producer
George Zaidan
Expert Consultant
Sheena Cruickshank

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