That’s not very true. But that may not be a complete lie either.
of cold, influenza and other respiratory diseases. COVID-19 (new coronavirus infection), caused by a virus.Several sinus infection caused by bacteria. These bacteria are usually spread It can be caused by breathing in droplets or particles from a sick person, then eating or drinking, or touching a contaminated surface and then touching the eyes, nose, or mouth.
“You won’t catch a cold just by going out in the cold.” sean o’learyChair of the American Academy of Pediatrics Committee on Infectious Diseases.
However, winter weather can create a more hospitable environment for bacteria, both outside and inside our bodies. Some studies suggest that cold temperatures may facilitate influenza virus infection. survive For example, better.
Cold weather can also affect our immune systems, making us more susceptible to infections when exposed to germs.
a 2018 survey They discovered that there are receptors in the area just inside the tip of each nostril that can detect inhaled bacteria. The immune system then sends swarms of tiny bubbles known as extracellular vesicles into the mucus in the nose to kill the bacteria before they can cause an infection.in 2022 Survey, Researchers found A similar process occurs with viruses, and most importantly, when the nose gets cold, its ability to perform this function can be hindered.
He said that studies taken together show that “a decrease in temperature of just 5 degrees Celsius approximately doubles susceptibility to viral infection.” benjamin breyerdirector of otolaryngology translational research at Massachusetts Eye & Ear, was senior author on both studies.
Hypothermia (a significant drop in body temperature caused by prolonged exposure to extreme cold) can also suppress the drop in body temperature. immune system.
“I don’t worry too much about going out with wet hair,” O’Leary says. “We’re concerned about making sure you’re protected from something that we know can be very serious.” Specifically, vaccinated Effective against coronavirus, influenza virus, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).
What else you need to know:
Some people are more likely to get sick in the winter, but it’s not because they spend time outdoors in the cold. In some cases, experts say the opposite may be true.
“During the winter, people gather in closed spaces with poor ventilation,” he said. monica gandhi, an infectious disease expert at the University of California, San Francisco. Having her family and friends nearby during cold and flu season “increases exposure to the virus through interaction with others,” she says.
Just going outside in the cold with wet hair won’t make you sick. For example, you need to come into contact with a cold or flu virus. However, colder temperatures can make you more susceptible to infections if you are exposed to certain bacteria.