Cold weather myths: Can you really get sick from the cold?
When the temperatures drop, many of us reach for scarves and coats, not just to stay warm but to avoid getting sick. But does cold weather really make you sick? Let's break down this popular belief and discover how to stay healthy, even as the chill sets in.
Does cold weather cause illness?
The short answer is no—cold weather alone doesn’t make you sick. Viruses cause illnesses, not the temperature. However, the cold can indirectly play a role in making it easier to catch a cold or the flu.
Here’s how:
- Staying indoors. When it’s cold outside, we spend more time indoors, in close contact with others, which makes it easier for germs to spread.
- Dry air. Winter air tends to be drier, which can dry out the protective mucous membranes in your nose and throat, making it easier for viruses to infect your body.
- Behavioral changes. Shorter days and colder weather might make us more likely to skip exercise or stay indoors, which can weaken our immune defenses over time.
So, while cold weather itself doesn't directly cause sickness, it creates the conditions that make it easier for viruses to spread.
How cold weather affects your immune system.
The cold can have some surprising effects on how well your immune system works. Let’s take a closer look:
| Effect | Description | |
| Blood flow changes | Cold weather can reduce blood flow to the nose, making it harder for your body to fight off infections. | |
| Less vitamin D | Shorter days mean less exposure to sunlight, which is a natural source of vitamin D, a key player in keeping your immune system strong. | |
| Dry mucus membranes | Cold, dry air can dry out the mucus in your nose and throat, which normally traps germs and bacteria. Without this defense, your body is more vulnerable. |
In short, the cold doesn’t break down your immune system directly, but it can weaken its defenses, making you more susceptible to infections like colds or the flu.
Tips to stay healthy during the colder months.
Even though you can’t control the temperature, you can take simple steps to boost your defenses and stay healthy during the colder months:
- Stay active. Regular exercise keeps your immune system strong and helps regulate circulation, even in cold weather.
- Hydrate. Cold air is dry and it’s easy to forget about drinking water in the winter. Stay hydrated to keep your mucus membranes moist and functioning properly.
- Bundle up. Keeping your body warm maintains proper blood flow and can help prevent chills, which can sometimes affect how well your immune system works.
- Get your flu shot. The flu virus thrives in winter. Protect yourself with a flu vaccine—it’s your best defense against getting seriously ill.
- Wash your hands. Since you're spending more time indoors around others, it's important to wash your hands regularly to avoid picking up and spreading viruses.
By taking these small steps, you can reduce your chances of getting sick and enjoy the colder months with peace of mind.
Conclusion.
While cold weather may not directly cause illness, it can create the perfect environment for viruses to spread. Staying proactive by boosting your immune system and practicing healthy habits can help keep colds and the flu at bay.
Remember, your health is in your hands—literally. Washing them regularly, staying active, and staying hydrated are just a few of the ways to stay well this winter.
If you’re feeling under the weather or need a flu shot, CityMD is here to help. With locations open nights, weekends, and holidays, you can walk in whenever it’s convenient for you—no appointment needed. Find your nearest CityMD location and let our team of healthcare providers help you stay healthy this winter and beyond.
We’re ready to care for you.
Visit any CityMD urgent care location in your community today for an evaluation with one of our expert providers.