Why winter makes you more prone to colds – a public health nurse explains the science behind the season

You've probably heard: “Don't go outside in winter with wet hair or without a coat; You’ll catch a cold.”

That's not entirely true. As with many things, the fact is more complicated. Here's the difference: Cold is just not the explanation you get a chilly. But it's true that cold weather makes it easier to contract respiratory viruses like colds and flu.

Research also shows that lower temperatures are related to this higher COVID-19 rates.

As Professor of Nursing I actually have a background in public health and am often asked in regards to the spread of infectious diseases, including the connection between the common cold and the common cold. So here's a have a look at what actually happens.

Many viruses, including Rhinovirus Influenza – the common explanation for the common cold – and SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, remain infectious longer and multiply more quickly in colder temperatures at lower humidity. This, together with the undeniable fact that people spend more time indoors and in close contact with others in cold weather, are common reasons that germs usually tend to spread.

The flu And Respiratory syncytial virusor RSV, are inclined to have one defined fall and winter seasonality. However, as recent COVID-19 variants emerge and immunity from previous infections and vaccinations declines over time, COVID-19 is just not your typical cold-weather respiratory virus. A working example is COVID-19 infection rates have increased every summer since 2020.

Transmission of viruses is simpler in cold weather

More specifically, cold weather can change the outer membrane of the influenza virus, making it firmer and more rubbery. Scientists imagine that the The rubbery coating allows transmission from individual to individual the virus easier.

It's not only the cold winter air that's an issue. Dry and cold air is related to flu outbreaks. That's due to it dry winter air also helps the influenza virus remain infectious for longer. Dry air, which is common in winter, causes the water contained in respiratory droplets to evaporate more quickly. This creates smaller particles which are able to doing this last more and travel further after coughing or sneezing.

How your immune system responds in cold weather can be very vital. Breathe in cold air can affect the immune response in your respiratory tract, making it easier for viruses to take hold. That's why wearing a shawl over your nose and mouth can prevent a chilly since it warms the air you breathe in.

In addition, most individuals have less sunlight in winter. This is an issue since the sun is a significant source of vitamin D, which is crucial for all times for immune system health. Physical activity, one other factor, also tends to diminish in winter. persons are 3 times more likely to delay training in snow or ice.

Instead, persons are spending more time indoors. This often means closer contact with others, which ends up in the spread of disease. Respiratory viruses generally distributed inside a 6 foot radius an infected person.

Additionally, cold temperatures And low humidity Dry out your eyes and the mucous membranes in your nose and throat. Since viruses that cause colds, flu, and COVID-19 are typically inhaled, the The virus can establish itself more easily in these compromised, dried-out passages.

What you possibly can do

The bottom line is that wet and cold don’t make you sick. However, there are strategies to forestall illness all yr round:

By following the following tips, you possibly can ensure a healthy winter season.