Recent Cold May significantly Lower COVID-19 Risk, Study Suggests
Rome, Italy – September 2, 2025 – A recent bout with the common cold appears to nearly halve an individual’s risk of contracting COVID-19, according to a new study published by researchers at the University of Rome. The findings, released today, offer a surprising insight into the complex interplay between viral infections and the body’s immune response, potentially informing new preventative strategies, particularly for vulnerable populations.
The research, detailed in a peer-reviewed publication, reveals that individuals recently infected with a non-COVID-19 coronavirus experienced a 47% reduction in their likelihood of testing positive for SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19. This suggests prior exposure to a related virus can trigger an immune response that offers cross-protection against the novel coronavirus. The study’s led author, Camille Moore, explained, “Seeking to understand how a virus can influence the body’s response to another could help us develop new prevention strategies.”
Researchers analyzed data from a cohort of participants, tracking their exposure to various respiratory viruses and subsequent COVID-19 infection rates. The observed protective effect was most pronounced within the first few weeks following a cold. While the exact mechanisms behind this phenomenon are still under investigation, scientists believe the initial viral infection primes the immune system, enhancing its ability to recognize and neutralize SARS-CoV-2.The findings have implications for public health approaches, potentially highlighting the importance of understanding the timing and impact of seasonal respiratory viruses on COVID-19 transmission. Further research is planned to investigate the duration of this cross-protection and identify specific immune factors involved.
