Myth: You Can Get a Cold from Being Cold

A widely held belief is that exposure to cold weather or getting chilled will cause someone to catch a cold, leading people to dress warmly in winter months to avoid illness.

However, the truth is that colds are caused by viruses, primarily rhinoviruses, and not by cold weather itself. A study published in the journal Clinical Microbiology Reviews shows that while cold weather can affect immune function, the transmission of viruses is what leads to illness. Factors such as close contact with infected individuals and poor hygiene practices are significant contributors to the spread of colds. Understanding that being cold does not directly cause colds can help individuals focus on preventive measures such as practicing good hygiene and avoiding close contact with sick individuals, rather than simply dressing warmly.