Buzz
As winter approaches the Northern Hemisphere, so do the many myths surrounding the common cold. From childhood, we are taught various beliefs about this illness, often differing from household to household. However, most of these beliefs are incorrect. This list aims to debunk common cold and flu myths, providing accurate information to help us better manage and prepare for future occurrences.
10. Sweating It Out
Many of us have tried this method or witnessed others doing it: bundling up in extra blankets, inhaling steam from a bowl of hot water, all in an attempt to sweat out the cold. Sadly, this approach is entirely ineffective. The only potential advantage is temporary symptom relief, which might make you feel slightly better.
9. Flu Shot Risks
This myth is quite peculiar – many individuals think the flu shot can give you the flu. This misconception stems from the belief that the vaccine contains a weakened form of the flu virus. In reality, the vaccine only includes parts of the virus, not the whole virus. As a result, it’s impossible to contract the flu from the flu shot.
8. Weak Immune System
A weakened immune system does not increase the likelihood of catching a cold. Research shows that both healthy and unhealthy individuals are equally susceptible to colds. Interestingly, studies reveal that while 95% of people exposed directly to the cold virus in their nasal membranes became infected, only 75% showed symptoms. This phenomenon is known as an 'asymptomatic infection.'
7. Vitamin C
Contrary to popular belief, consuming large amounts of vitamin C and zinc does not prevent or cure a cold. While vitamin and mineral supplements are generally beneficial, they have no impact on the cold virus. Once you catch a cold, it’s more effective to rely on pain relievers and let it run its course.
6. Winter Colds
Myth: Most colds occur in the winter. Fact: The majority of colds are actually caught during the Spring and Fall seasons, not winter. This is because the cold virus tends to be more active in these seasons and becomes relatively dormant in winter.
5. Avoid Drinking Milk
Many believe that consuming milk during a cold is harmful, as it supposedly increases mucus production. However, this is untrue – milk does not contribute to mucus buildup. You can enjoy milk without worrying about worsening your cold symptoms.
4. Cold Kissing
A common myth suggests that kissing someone with a cold will make you catch it. In reality, the amount of virus present on the lips and mouth is minimal, and a much larger dose is needed for infection. The real concern is nasal mucus, so avoid nose-kissing.
3. Starve a Fever
We’ve all heard the saying, 'starve a fever, feed a cold.' However, this is entirely false. Eating does not harm the body when you’re ill; in fact, it’s beneficial. Food provides the energy your body needs to fight illness, so maintaining a healthy diet is crucial when sick. A warm bowl of chicken soup is an excellent place to start!
2. Don’t Treat Cold Symptoms
Some believe that cold symptoms like a runny nose or coughing help the body recover faster, so they avoid treating them with medication. However, these symptoms don’t shorten the cold’s duration and can actually spread the virus to others through actions like sneezing or coughing. Using pain relievers and cold medicines not only makes the illness more bearable but also helps prevent its spread.
1. Cold Causes a Cold
Many of us have been warned not to go outside with wet hair or to bundle up to avoid catching a cold. However, body temperature or the surrounding environment has no impact on catching a cold. The only way to get sick is by coming into contact with the cold virus. Once the virus enters your system, you’ll fall ill, regardless of whether you’re hot, cold, warm, or dry.
