10 cold and flu myths we must stop believing now

Cold and flu myths spread like wildfire, presenting the world with misunderstandings on how to avoid infection and recover. The time has come to debunk some myths once and for all. Here are 10 common myths that need to be put to rest.

One of the biggest myths is that cold weather itself causes colds. The truth is that cold weather won’t make you sick- viruses will. However, because people are indoors more often during the colder months, they create close-contact situations that make virus transmission easier.

It is an inactivated form of the virus. So, one will not get the flu from the shot itself. Some people may feel soreness or tiredness afterwards, but that’s not anything associated with the flu; it is rather the immune system building defences

Regardless of whether you have a common cold or the flu, your body needs energy to be able to fight off this condition. Nourishment and hydration help your immune system work properly; hence, feeding on light, balanced meals as well as drinking plenty of fluids is important for most illnesses.

Antibiotics only work on bacterial infections, not viruses like the common cold and flu. Overuse of antibiotics increases antibiotic resistance. For viral infections, rest and hydration will be a better remedy, not forgetting antiviral drugs if prescribed.

Though Vitamin C may play a role in maintaining immune health, it does not prevent catching colds. Vitamin C might shorten the length of time one has a cold, but it is far from a magic cure for the prevention of a cold. Instead, a well-rounded diet is a more powerful way to gain immunity.

Exercises taken with a mild cold pose no danger at all, especially when the symptoms occur within your head, such as runny nose. Heavy workouts may even prolong recovery, so do some light exercise and listen to your body.

It is a fact that our immune system remembers certain viruses, but it is no reason to keep away from preventive measures. Regular hygiene practices such as washing one’s hands and getting vaccinated are imperative because every exposure does not guarantee immunity and can still present risks.

Warm drinks are soothing but remove no virus. Liquid hot drinks are good loosening agents of mucus and also hydrate the suffering body. Hydration works well with symptom relief, but nothing to reduce the virus.

Green or yellow mucus usually indicates that the body is battling an infection. However, it does not mean that the person needs to take antibiotics. The colour is actually a result of the working of immune cells and happens with both viral and bacterial infections.