Myth: You Can Catch a Cold from Being Cold

A widespread myth suggests that simply being in cold weather, such as going outside with wet hair or without a jacket, can lead to catching a cold. Many people believe that the body’s exposure to cold directly causes the immune system to become weaker, making it easier for viruses to take hold.

The common cold is caused by viruses, not by cold temperatures themselves. While it’s true that cold weather can contribute to conditions that make it easier for viruses to spread, such as people gathering indoors or dry air that can dry out nasal passages, being cold doesn’t directly cause illness. In fact, your body has natural defenses against cold, and exposure to chilly temperatures doesn’t weaken your immune system. Research has shown that the colder weather often coincides with the increase in colds because people tend to spend more time indoors, in close proximity to others, which facilitates the transmission of viruses like rhinovirus, which causes the common cold. Keeping warm during cold weather is important for comfort, but the risk of catching a cold comes from viral exposure, not the temperature itself.