Does cold weather actually cause the common cold? The answer might surprise you.
In short: You have likely heard that going outside without a coat or with wet hair leads to illness. This video examines the science behind the seasonal spike in respiratory viruses, clarifying why cold temperatures alone are not the culprit for catching a cold.
Research conducted over the last century consistently shows that cold temperatures do not increase an individual's susceptibility to viral infection. While there is a clear 'cold and flu season' that aligns with cooler weather, the cold itself is not the direct cause of sickness.
Instead, the uptick in respiratory viruses during winter is attributed to a combination of factors, including lower humidity levels and the tendency for people to spend more time indoors. These environmental changes create conditions that make it easier for viruses like the cold and flu to spread.
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Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: Why Do People Seem To Get More Colds In The Winter?
- Also: Why People Get More Colds in Winter
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