Myth: You Can Catch a Cold from Being Cold

The idea that being out in the cold weather can cause you to catch a cold is a widespread myth. People often associate cold exposure with getting sick, leading to the belief that cold temperatures directly cause colds. This belief has been passed down through generations and is often cited during cold and flu season as a reason to avoid the chilly outdoors. However, the truth behind this idea is more complex than simply being cold.

Colds are caused by viruses, not by cold weather. The myth likely comes from the fact that people tend to stay indoors more during the colder months, increasing the likelihood of being exposed to the viruses that cause colds. Additionally, the dry air in winter can dry out the nasal passages, making people more susceptible to infection. Exposure to cold weather itself does not weaken the immune system or directly lead to catching a cold. Studies show that viruses spread through the air or by direct contact with contaminated surfaces, not through exposure to cold temperatures. To prevent catching a cold, the best strategies are frequent handwashing, avoiding close contact with infected individuals, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle to support immune function. Cold weather may encourage behaviors that facilitate the spread of viruses, but the temperature itself does not cause illness.