5 Weather-Related Myths About Catching a Cold
We’ve all heard them: the old wives’ tales, granny warnings, and playground “facts” about how you catch a cold. But infectious disease specialist Dr. Steve is here to set the record straight!
Here are 5 myths about catching a cold — officially busted:
1. Being Cold or Wet Will Make You Sick
You can be freezing cold, drenched in rain, or walking around in wet socks — but unless you’re exposed to a virus, you’re not going to catch a cold. Germs cause colds, not chilly weather.
2. Going Outside with Wet Hair Will Give You a Cold
Sorry, high school coaches and worried moms — wet hair doesn’t cause illness. You might feel colder (because the head radiates heat), but you need a virus to get sick.
3. Cold Feet = Cold or Flu
While cold, wet feet can be uncomfortable (and even cause fungal infections like athlete’s foot), they will not give you a cold. Again, germs are the culprit — not damp socks.
4. Sudden Weather Changes Will Make You Sick
A hot day that turns cold doesn’t trigger illness. Your body will naturally respond by shivering or sweating, but these temperature swings won’t cause infections. Only viruses and bacteria can do that.
5. Not Covering Your Ears in Cold Weather Causes Ear Infections
Cold ears won’t give you an ear infection. Actual ear infections happen when germs make their way from little hands or runny noses into the ear canal. Keeping ears warm is nice — but it’s not what keeps illness away.
Where Did These Myths Come From?
These myths didn’t appear out of nowhere. Historians believe they came from people trying to make sense of sickness long before we understood how viruses and germs spread. For example, when it’s cold outside, people spend more time indoors in close quarters — perfect conditions for germs to spread. Plus, many viruses actually thrive in colder, drier air. Without knowing about viruses, our ancestors did the best they could by connecting the dots they could see. Thankfully, science — and experts like Dr. Steve — have filled in the rest!
Dr. Steve’s Bottom Line:
Your best defense against getting sick? Wash your hands, get enough rest, and skip the myths. And if grandma tells you otherwise… well, maybe just nod and smile.