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Does the temperature outside have anything to do with the body's susceptibility to catching a cold or virus? If not, why are so many people infected during the winter?

One of the most common myths is that exposure to cold temperatures leads to colds. More upper respiratory infections occur during the winter months, but this is because of greater exposure to viruses indoors -- where we spend a lot of time avoiding the chilly weather.

"Cold temperatures do not cause colds," says CAS Biology Professor Stjepko Golubic. "Historically, Eskimos and people in the northern latitudes, before being exposed to viruses from white people, did not suffer from colds."

You are more likely to catch the common cold in the winter, however, because humidity drops. Colds and viruses love dry weather. When mucus is moist, it's better able to capture the viruses and pass them to the stomach, where they perish in acid.

And the more infected people you are exposed to, the greater your chances of catching a cold. "Personally, I've noticed that if I don't teach for a prolonged period, or if I don't take the trolley for a while, my exposure is limited," says Golubic. But that doesn't mean you should become a hermit. One safeguard against the common cold is simply to wash your hands frequently and thoroughly.

"You can also catch a cold or virus more easily in any season if your body's defenses are down," adds Golubic. "For example, if you don't get enough sleep or if you're under stress, the cold is better able to attack your immune system. Older people are less resistant to colds and viruses."

What should you do when you get a cold? Double your fluid intake, because colds thrive in dryness. This doesn't mean drinking alcoholic beverages and coffee: they dehydrate. Try herbal teas or a combination of hot water, lemon juice, and honey -- hot liquids speed up mucus flow, which will get the virus out of your system more quickly.

"Ask the Bridge" welcomes readers’ questions. E-mail bridge@bu.edu or write to "Ask the Bridge," 10 Lenox Street, Brookline, MA 02446.

19 January 2001
Boston University
Office of University Relations