MEMPHIS, TN (abc24.com) - Can you catch a cold from cold temperatures? Doctors say that is a myth. Cold and flu season do typically peak during the winter months, but frigid temperatures aren’t to blame.
“People are inside together a lot more and being exposed to more people," says pediatrician Dr. Nicole Sheffield. "Their germs are what make you more likely get a cold when it's cold outside.”
Catching a cold happens year round. Doctors see a spike in patients during the cold months because the cold and flu virus is spread more easily between people indoors. However, you should still bundle up when you go outside when it is cold because when your body temperature is lower, the body is more susceptible to catching the virus.
Cold temperatures are also typically accompanied by lower humidity. Dry air actually works against the multiplying of the cold and flu virus.
“It helps to not have the specific environment for bacteria to grow in, but you're still likely to get a cold any way,” says Sheffield. “You’re more susceptible being exposed to someone's saliva and things like that.”
Other myths busted by the doctor: Going from a warm environment to a cold environment doesn't change your susceptibility to get a cold.
Doctors say it is a fact that washing your hands and getting vaccinated will help in the fight to stay cold-free this season.
