10 Myths About Winter Illnesses
Contributor: Dr Micheli Bevilacqua, MD, FRCPC, MHA, CHE
Health myths are ever-present and thrive on half-truths—a mix of outdated beliefs, misinformation, and anecdotal experiences passed down without scientific scrutiny.
COLD WEATHER CAUSES COLDS AND FLU
The flu and the common cold are caused by viruses. While people tend to get sick more often in winter, it’s because they spend more time indoors in close proximity to others, which increases the chance of spreading germs, not
3. YOU CAN’T GET SICK FROM THE FLU SHOT
The flu shot contains inactivated viruses (or in some cases, parts of the virus), which cannot cause infection. Some people may feel mild side effects, like soreness or a low-grade fever, but this is not the flu itself.
5. YOU ONLY GET SUNBURNED IN SUMMER
Even in winter, the sun’s UV rays can damage your skin, especially if you’re outside in the snow or at high altitudes, as snow reflects UV rays. Wearing sunscreen is still important during winter months.
7. NATURAL COLD REMEDIES ARE ALL SAFE
Just because something is listed as ‘natural’ or available to buy without a prescription does not mean it is safe for everyone. Some over-the-counter medications or supplements that are safe for others can be dangerous in people living with kidney disease. Check with your kidney team before taking any over-the-counter medication or supplement.
9. STARVE A FEVER, FEED A COLD
The body needs nutrition and hydration to fight off any illness. Whether you have a cold or fever, eating a balanced diet and drinking fluids are essential to help your immune system function properly
2. GOING OUTSIDE WITH WET HAIR CAUSES ILLNESS
Illness is caused by viruses and bacteria, not wet hair. While cold temperatures can weaken your immune system slightly, they don’t directly make you sick. Wet hair might make you feel colder, but it doesn’t lead to illness.
4. BEING COLD WILL WEAKEN YOUR IMMUNE SYSTEM
While long exposure to extreme cold can stress the body, moderate cold temperatures do not significantly impact the immune system. It’s more about how close people are to each other indoors during winter months.
6. THE FLU IS JUST A BAD COLD
The flu is generally more severe than a cold. It often comes on suddenly, causing fever, body aches, fatigue, and more serious complications like pneumonia in some cases, particularly in vulnerable populations like the elderly or those with chronic health conditions.
8. THERE’S NO WORRY ABOUT DEHYDRATION IN WINTER
Dehydration can occur in winter, too, especially because people often drink less water due to lower thirst cues in cold weather. Dry indoor heating also contributes to water loss. It’s important to stay hydrated year-round.
10. VITAMIN D DEFICIENCY DOESN’T HAPPEN IN WINTER
Vitamin D deficiency is common in winter, especially in places with less sunlight. The body makes vitamin D when exposed to sunlight, so it’s a good idea to consider vitamin D-rich foods or supplements in winter.
(reprinted from Kidney Magazine)