On my last I had just gotton a serious bought of asthma under control. To that extent I was able to utilize medication. As for the viral end of it, it was on the out by the time I left for my trip and with exception to some infrequent coughing (into the bend of my arm, not into the air or on my hands) I was able to keep it very much under control. As for meds for the cold though - not everyone is able to medicate for a cold. This is somthing I did in the past, however since developing other health issues, I am no longer able to take cold medications. I would presume others may have this issue as well.