Cold & Flu myths
Colds are caused by cold weather.
No, they are caused by viruses. However, you might be more susceptible to colds in the winter months because you tend to go indoors in crowded environments where you are more likely to pick up other people’s viruses. Plus, there are some strains of cold viruses that thrive in the cold, and cold weather can dry out your sinuses, making them more vulnerable to infection.
• You can catch a cold by going outside with wet hair or damp clothes.
No, but being wet can weaken your immune system, which makes it more likely that you can catch a cold.
It’s easy to spot a cold.
No, it can be challenging to diagnose because there’s a lot of overlap among upper respiratory infections. More here.
When is the last time you had a cold or flu?