Myth: Cold Weather Causes the Common Cold

Many believe that cold weather directly causes the common cold, leading people to bundle up to avoid catching it. The myth likely arises from the increased prevalence of colds in winter, reinforcing the association between cold weather and illness.

The common cold is caused by viruses, primarily rhinoviruses, not by cold weather itself. While colds are more common in colder months, the reason is environmental rather than temperature-related. People tend to stay indoors during colder months, leading to closer contact and greater virus transmission. Research from The Journal of Infectious Diseases supports that while cold weather might weaken the immune response slightly, it does not cause colds. Proper hygiene and hand-washing are the most effective ways to prevent the spread of cold viruses. Understanding that viruses, not temperature, cause colds can help people focus on effective prevention methods.