Common Cold - Still No Cure The common cold may be too complex to cure. Over 200 strains of viruses cause cold symptoms, and some of those viruses can mutate, creating even more varieties. Cold viruses are spread by hand-to-hand contact, travel in mucus droplets that are launched into the air by coughing or sneezing, or are picked up via contact with everyday objects such as door knobs, light switches, clothing, and furniture. After touching an infected object, a person can introduce the virus into their body by wiping their eyes, nose, or mouth with virus-coated hands. The best way to prevent a cold is to wash your hands frequently and avoid rubbing your face.