Is cold a virus or bacteria?

Cold is typically caused by viruses, not bacteria. The most common culprit behind the common cold is the rhinovirus, though there are several other viruses that can also trigger cold symptoms. These viruses are highly contagious and easily spread from person to person, especially through droplets from coughing and sneezing or by touching contaminated surfaces. Bacteria, on the other hand, can cause infections like strep throat or pneumonia but are not usually responsible for the common cold. So, when you catch a cold, it's usually a virus that's to blame!