In the cold, certain colds and respiratory diseases really spread more, but we can easily do something to avoid snot.
If it’s cold, is it the flu?
In recent days, it has been so cold that even the polar bears started with straws in the morning. It’s no wonder that the number of people suffering from flu, COVID and other cold-like illnesses has started to grow by leaps and bounds. But why is it that together with the cold, the flu also sets in immediately?
This question has been asked by many people throughout the history of mankind, but scientists have only recently found a satisfactory answer. Also at several American universities and health research laboratories investigated the relationship between colds and respiratory infections. In the end, the researchers came to the conclusion that the cold is not actually the cause of the common cold, but it contributes a lot to it.
The cold is coming, the virus is coming
There are many types of viruses in the world and these little scumbags have amazing resistance. But there are some that, due to their structure, prefer warm, humid environments, while others spread fastest in cold, dry air. For example, in autumn, when it is not so cold yet humid, rhinoviruses spread at a crazy speed. This is one of the groups of viruses behind the “classic” cold. However, as the weather gets colder and the air gets drier, another team is on the attack: the flu and co.
Viruses attack
For a long time, it was believed that viruses spread primarily through skin contact. That’s why we all frantically wash our hands every time flu season hits. However, it has now become clear that, although hand washing is an important part of basic hygiene, it does not help much against viruses. Viruses mainly spread in the air in the form of aerosols. These small floating particles are then inhaled unnoticed. Since we spend a lot of time in closed spaces in winter, it is extremely important to regularly ventilate and it is also worth taking care of the appropriate humidity of the air.
What does the cold do to us
In winter, it is more difficult for our bodies to fight diseases. Apart from the cold, this period can be unpleasant in other ways. Due to much less sunshine, a vitamin D deficiency develops, which worsens our body’s resistance. Semmelweis University therefore recommends consuming 2,000 units of vitamin D3 per day during the winter months.
In the cold, the surface of the airways is more easily damaged, where viruses can easily enter the body. In addition, our cells produce fewer antibodies, which also favors the development of diseases.
Colds can be prevented
However, according to the experts, we can do something so that we don’t have to get through the flu season sick back home. First of all, they emphasized the importance of regular ventilation and spending as much time as possible outdoors. In addition, supplementing with vitamin D can also help the body a lot in defense. Some researchers swear by humidification, but this can cause mold to appear, so be careful with that. Finally, one of them added that even though the idea is disgusting to many, wearing masks indoors can also reduce the chance of getting sick.