Facts and Fiction About The Common Cold

Here is some valuable information to help distinguish between what's helpful and what's pure hype when it comes to taking care of you and your kids.

Dr. Eileen Schneider, a Medical Epidemiologist at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention provides this great advice:

-- Can family members pass the same cold back and forth? Dr. Schneider says theoretcially, yes, although you're more likely suffering from yet ANOTHER bug. She says that generally people who have a cold get a temporary immunity. It may seem like you've caught the same cold again, but it could also be caused by a different virus. To avoid catching whatever germs are lurking in your household, Dr. Schneider suggests practicing proper coughing etiquette (into your elbow) and hand washing.

2. Can you cure a cold by feeding it? Dr. Schneider says that good nutrition does play a role, but the short answer is no. However, the doctor says that eating a well-balanced diet can help you remain healthy and improve your chances of fighting off a cold and at least having minimal symptoms when you do get one.

3. Can you catch a cold by going out in winter with wet hair? The link between wet hair and colds IS AN OLD WIVES' TALE, according to Dr. Schneider. (I have been saying this myself for years, but no one ever believes me...probably 'cause I'm not a doctor, lol!). There is some evidence that getting chilled weakens the immune system, but that's in people under extreme conditions, not in kids just out of the shower at the bus stop. Dr. Schneider says as long as you don't feel cold, chances are your body can tolerate it.

(Q&A courtesy of FamilyFun Magazine)