Why colds are more common in winter

Why colds are more common in winter

Libby Richards & The Conversation US

The following essay is reproduced with permission. The Conversation is an online publication covering the latest research.

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

That’s not exactly true. As with many things, the reality is more complicated. The differences are: You don’t catch a cold just because it’s cold. However, it is true that cold weather makes you more susceptible to respiratory viruses such as colds and influenza.

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Research also shows that colder temperatures are associated with higher rates of COVID-19 infection.

As a professor of nursing with a background in public health, I often receive questions about the spread of infectious diseases, such as the relationship between colds and how you catch them. So let’s see what actually happens.

Many viruses, such as rhinoviruses, which commonly cause colds, influenza, and SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, are more contagious in colder temperatures and humidity. Lasts longer and replicates faster. This, along with the fact that people spend more time indoors and in close contact with others during the colder months, are common reasons why germs are more likely to spread.

Influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) tend to have a distinct seasonality in fall and winter. However, with the emergence of new variants of the new coronavirus infection (COVID-19) and immunity from past infections and vaccinations decreasing over time, the spread of the new coronavirus infection (COVID-19) is not a typical cold-climate respiratory virus. A case in point: since 2020, the infection rate of new coronavirus infections has skyrocketed every summer.

Cold weather makes it easier to get infected with viruses

Specifically, cold weather can change the outer membrane of the influenza virus, making it harder and more rubbery. Scientists believe the rubbery coating makes it easier for the virus to spread from person to person.

Cold winter air isn’t the only culprit. In addition to cold weather, dry air also contributes to the spread of influenza. That’s because the dry winter air keeps the influenza virus infectious for even longer. The dry air common in winter allows the moisture in respiratory droplets to evaporate faster. As a result, the particles are smaller and can last longer and travel farther after you cough or sneeze.

How your immune system responds to cold weather is also very important. Breathing in cold air can have a negative impact on the immune response of the airways, making it easier for viruses to take hold. Therefore, wearing a scarf that covers your nose and mouth can help warm the air you breathe and help prevent colds.

Also, most people get less sunlight in the winter. This is a problem because the sun is a major source of vitamin D, which is essential for immune system health. Another factor, physical activity, also tends to decrease during the winter. In snowy and icy conditions, people are three times more likely to delay exercise.

Instead, people spend more time indoors. This usually means closer contact with other people, leading to the spread of the disease. Respiratory viruses typically spread within a 6-foot radius of an infected person.

Additionally, low temperatures and humidity dry out the mucous membranes in your eyes, nose, and throat. Viruses that cause colds, flu, and COVID-19 are commonly inhaled, so these damaged, dry passageways can more easily attract viruses.

What you can do

In conclusion, being wet or cold doesn’t mean you’ll get sick. That said, there are strategies to prevent illness year-round.

Follow these tips and you’ll have a healthy winter.

This article was first published conversation. please read original article.