Can Cold Weather Cause The Common Cold or Flu?

Many people talk about catching a common cold from being in cold weather, while others disagree that it’s possible to catch a cold from being cold. While the cold weather is not the reason someone can get sick, there are several reasons why it is easier to become ill in cold weather.

One of them is that the viruses can spread easier in colder temperatures. When our bodies are exposed to cold temperatures, our immune system can be negatively impacted more than in warmer conditions. 

The common cold and influenza

There’s a reason why it’s called the common cold. It’s undoubtedly something widespread and happens to people regularly. On average, adults get 2 to 3 colds each year.

Rhinovirus is one of the most common colds with mild cold symptoms. However, this infection can also cause more severe illnesses like pneumonia and bronchitis, especially those with weakened immunity.

Because rhinovirus can spread through tiny droplets by air, there are several reasons why it is easier to catch it when the weather is cold.

The first reason is that lower temperatures (and increased humidity) create a better breeding ground for the infection, and it replicates faster. Temperatures below 37C make it a perfect environment for it to strive, for example, our cold noses when we are outdoors. 

Another reason is that people spend more time indoors when it’s cold outside, so there is more chance to get it in an indoor environment with less ventilation.

The more serious influenza or flu also loves colder temperatures, where it spreads easier and faster. 

Cold weather and the immune system

More often than not, cold weather lowers our immunity, making it easy for illnesses to attach themselves to us.  

Our bodies lack specific vitamins during winter, like vitamin D, which is vital in supporting our immune system and upper respiratory tract health. Breathing in dry cold air can also cause the blood vessels in our upper respiratory tract to narrow as they conserve heat. This, in turn, can stop white blood cells from reaching the mucous membrane and make the body unable to fight off germs adequately.

So while cold weather cannot be responsible for making people sick, there are numerous factors why it is easier to become ill in lower temperatures. So keep warm, wash your hands regularly and take your immunity-boosting vitamins in winter to protect yourself and your family from infections.