Debunking Cold and Flu Myths

As cold and flu season continues, you may see or hear about ways to avoid and manage cold or flu-like symptoms. Some of this advice may not always be accurate.

T Newsome, MD, an internal medicine physician with Adventist Medical Group, debunks five common myths surrounding the cold and flu viruses.

BEING EXPOSED TO COLD AIR WILL MAKE YOU SICK

Dr. Newsome says that even though most cold and flu virus strains survive best in cool and dry conditions, environmental changes are not the primary reason why you are getting sick. “Cold and flu viruses are usually spread through contact with saliva and mucus that contain the virus. They are typically found in the air or on previously contaminated surfaces,” says Dr. Newsome.

HOME REMEDIES WILL HELP GET RID OF THE COLD OR FLU

Home remedies for the cold and flu cannot cure or prevent sickness. However, certain remedies can help relieve your symptoms. For example, consuming honey, gargling with salt water and drinking hot soup broth or tea can help break up mucus in your chest and soothe your sore throat. “Cold and flu viruses need to run their course before you start feeling better,” says Dr. Newsome. “The most effective way to reduce the duration of your illness is to stay hydrated and get plenty of rest.”

THE FLU VACCINE CAN MAKE YOU SICK

The flu vaccine cannot make you sick with the flu. Flu vaccines are created from either inactive flu viruses or tiny traces of the virus that are not enough to make you sick. If you're feeling unwell after receiving the flu vaccine, Dr. Newsome says it's likely that the common cold, sinusitis or another respiratory condition is causing your symptoms.

HEAVY EXERCISE CAN HELP YOU FEEL BETTER FASTER WHEN YOU ARE SICK

The best thing you can do for your body when you are sick is to get plenty of rest and stay away from others. “Occasionally, mild to moderate exercise is fine if you have a common cold without a fever,” says Dr. Newsome. “If you have a fever, chest congestion or body aches, exercise can worsen your symptoms and should be avoided.”

HEALTHY PEOPLE DO NOT NEED A FLU VACCINE EVERY YEAR

The flu vaccine is recommended for just about everyone who is 6 months old or older. “Your immunity to the flu is strongest right after you get vaccinated but decreases over time, which is why it's important to get the vaccine annually,” says Dr. Newsome. “Skipping the flu vaccine puts both you and others at risk of contracting the flu or experiencing more severe flu-related complications if you happen to contract the virus.”

Sources: Mayo Clinic, National Institutes of Health, Centers for Disease Control, Harvard Health