Does cold weather cause colds and flu?

Does cold weather cause colds and flu? 

See why we are more at risk of illness in winter.

Question 1:

Which statement is true about the relationship between cold weather and respiratory diseases?

a) Cold weather is the direct cause of colds

b) Low temperatures make it easier to catch respiratory viruses

c) Going out with wet hair in winter causes colds 

d) Cold weather has no effect on virus transmission

Question 2:

Which of the following factors does NOT contribute to the increased spread of respiratory diseases in winter?

a) Less exposure to sunlight

b) Decreased physical activity

c) More time spent outdoors

d) More time indoors with other people

Question 3:

How does cold weather affect the immune system?

a) It has no effect on the immune system

b) It always strengthens the immune system in everyone

c) It can adversely affect the immune response 

d) Completely eliminates the body's ability to defend itself

Here are some essential guidelines for looking after your health in winter:

Dress appropriately

Frequent hand washing

Keep to your immunisation schedule

Stay physically active, even during the winter.

Adequate hydration

Get enough sleep.

Seasonal nutrition

Answers:

Correct answer - question 1: b) Low temperatures make it easier to get infected with respiratory viruses

Explanation: 

Although cold itself does not cause illness, it can aggravate it. Lower temperatures facilitate the transmission of respiratory viruses which, for example, can cause colds, flu or COVID-19. This is because many viruses can survive and multiply more easily in cold, dry air.

Correct answer - question 2: c) More time spent outdoors. 

Explanation: 

During the winter, people tend to spend more time indoors, which increases close contact and facilitates the transmission of viruses. Less exposure to sunlight (a source of vitamin D) and less physical activity are also factors that contribute to greater susceptibility to respiratory infections in winter.

Correct answer - question 3: c) It can adversely affect the immune response in the respiratory tract

Explanation: 

Cold weather causes a decrease in body temperature, which reduces the immune system's ability to respond and favours the activity of respiratory viruses, making the body more susceptible to infections.

Thordis Berger

Chief Medical Officer Holmes Place