Can cold weather make you sick? Science dispels myth
Photo: Can cold weather make you sick (Freepik)
Every winter, the same debate pops up: can you catch a cold if you step outside without a coat? Some people swear it’s true, while others call it a myth.
RBC-Ukraine explores whether the cold really makes you sick.
Why we get sick more often in winter
Science is clear: cold weather itself doesn’t cause colds. Viruses and bacteria are the real culprits. But there’s an important catch.
Cold temperatures don’t make you sick directly, but they create ideal conditions for infections to spread.
During the cold season, the immune system can be less efficient: some of the body’s energy goes into keeping warm, and protective cells respond more slowly. This doesn’t cause illness on its own, but it does make us more vulnerable to viruses.
Another factor is the cold, dry air typical of winter. It dries out the mucous membranes in the nose, which act as a natural barrier against germs. When these membranes are irritated or dried out, viruses can enter the body more easily.
The role of behavior and environment
In winter, people spend more time indoors with closed windows and poor ventilation. Crowded spaces greatly increase the risk of infection.
Scientific studies also show that some viruses, such as influenza, survive better and spread faster in cold, dry conditions. That’s why colds and respiratory infections usually peak during the winter months.
How to protect yourself from viruses
Warm clothing is important for comfort and supporting the immune system, but it doesn’t protect against viruses. Real prevention comes from daily habits. Regular handwashing, avoiding touching your face, and being cautious in crowded places significantly reduce the risk of infection.
It’s also important to ventilate rooms even in winter, maintain proper indoor humidity, drink enough water, and eat a balanced diet.
Foods rich in vitamins help the immune system function steadily.
Earlier, we shared 6 foods to fight nasal congestion.
Sources: Ministry of Health website, National Health Service, Mayo Clinic.
This material is for informational purposes only and should not be used for medical diagnosis or self-treatment. Our goal is to provide readers with accurate information about symptoms, causes, and methods of detecting diseases. RBС-Ukraine is not responsible for any diagnoses that readers may make based on materials from the resource. We do not recommend self-treatment and advise consulting a doctor in case of any health concerns.
