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Why Is the Common Cold More Common in Colder Months?

Cold season occurs every year during the months when the weather is cold. According to the Mayo Clinic, most adults get a cold between two and four times a year, while children can get the common cold as often as six to 10 times a year.

  1. Cause

    • The common cold is commonly caused by the rhinovirus, but can also be caused by one of over 200 other viruses.

    Time Frame

    • The common cold usually lasts seven days, but cough symptoms may last longer, according to pediatrician Dr. Alan Greene.

    Considerations

    • Cold germs "thrive in dry conditions," according to the Mayo Clnic, which suggests a humidifier to add moisture to the air in the home.

    Effects

    • According to Dr. Lisa Bernstein, the common cold is spread in the winter because the entire population is indoors, and therefore able to spread it between one another more easily.

    Misconceptions

    • Going out in cold weather does not expose an individual to the common cold, although cold weather was originally believed to be cause.

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