Grandma’s advice about catching a cold from walking barefoot on a cold floor or going outside with wet hair holds some truth. While cold temperatures, particularly in winter, do not directly cause a common cold, they can weaken the immune system and create conditions that allow respiratory viruses to thrive. Dr. Winston Rajendram, a family medicine physician at Northwestern Medicine, confirms that these warnings are not just old wives’ tales.
During colder weather, viruses are more active and can spread more easily, leading to a higher risk of infection. Respiratory droplets containing viruses can linger in the air longer in cooler, drier conditions, increasing the likelihood of transmission. This is why crowded holiday gatherings can become super-spreading events.
Viruses require a host to replicate and can only survive outside briefly. When people with a cold or COVID-19 cough or sneeze, they release respiratory droplets containing the virus. Cooler and drier air allows these droplets to remain airborne longer, increasing the chances of infecting others nearby. Higher temperatures and humidity can limit the survival of viruses outside a host.
While cooler weather may weaken the immune system and make the body more susceptible to infection, spending more time indoors during winter months also contributes to the spread of viruses. Indoor spaces with poor air circulation can allow viruses to linger, increasing the risk of transmission. It is important to practice good hygiene, such as covering your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, to prevent the spread of germs. Additionally, speaking with a physician about vaccines during a checkup can help protect against certain illnesses.
He recommends that all individuals aged 6 months and older receive the flu vaccine. During the previous flu season in the United States, there were 470,000 flu-related hospitalizations and 28,000 deaths due to flu-related complications, as reported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Vaccinations can play a significant role in reducing the risk of contracting severe infections.
Similarly, when it comes to COVID-19, there is now an updated vaccine available for all individuals aged 6 months and older. Additionally, for respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), vaccination is advised for elderly individuals, pregnant women, and babies. Unfortunately, there is no vaccine for the common cold, which is caused by rhinoviruses. However, individuals can take precautions with all respiratory viruses by dressing appropriately with hats and gloves in cold weather.
Moreover, wearing a mask can provide protection. In some countries, wearing a mask indicates that a person is ill and is taking steps to safeguard those around them, as stated by Rajendram. If individuals are feeling unwell, it is advisable for them to stay at home to prevent spreading the illness to others. It is also essential to avoid touching the face, as this can transfer bacteria or viruses from the mouth or nose to surfaces, potentially leaving pathogens behind. In the event of a cough or sneeze, it is best to cover the mouth with the crook of the arm or a tissue instead of using the hand. Regular handwashing with soap and water is crucial.
