We are more likely to get sick in winter because the cold and lack of humidity promote the spread of viruses, spending more time indoors facilitates the transmission of diseases, and reduced exposure to the sun decreases the production of vitamin D, which is important for the immune system.
In winter, colder temperatures and drier air allow viruses to survive longer. Flu viruses, for example, love cold and dry air. It's like a giant party for them. Additionally, we are often in enclosed spaces with other people, which facilitates transmission. The viral droplets we expel when coughing or sneezing linger longer in the dry air. Add to that the fact that we tend to ventilate our rooms less in winter, which further promotes their spread. Viruses in winter are a bit like children in a playground: they find the perfect environment to spread and have fun.
When it's cold, the air contains less moisture. Breathing in this dry air dries out the mucous membranes in our respiratory tract. These mucous membranes act as a first line of defense against microbes. When they're dry, they struggle to stop viruses and bacteria. As a result, we become more vulnerable to infections. It's as if the cold air is playing the role of a saboteur!
The sun is our main source of vitamin D. In winter, the days are shorter, and we spend much less time outside. This means less sunlight and therefore less production of vitamin D by our body. This vitamin is incredibly important for our immune system. A vitamin D deficiency can make our body less effective at fighting infections. So, when it comes to catching a cold or the flu, the lack of winter sun really doesn't help.
In winter, we spend much more time indoors. Fewer outdoor activities, more raclette evenings. In enclosed spaces, ventilation is reduced, which promotes the spread of viruses. Add to that overheated places, where the air is often too dry. And boom, there's a perfect combination for catching a good cold. Plus, did you know? Viruses spread even better when the air is dry. So classrooms, offices, public transport, they become a real playground for germs. Multiple contacts, proximity, everything needed for them to circulate.
Winter can weaken our immune system for several reasons. First, our body produces less vitamin D due to the lack of sunlight. Vitamin D is very important for supporting our immune system. Next, when it's cold, people tend to stay indoors more often, which promotes infections as viruses can easily spread from one person to another. Lastly, the cold can stress our body, and stress weakens the immune defenses. Therefore, our shield against illnesses is not at its strongest during winter.
Did you know that babies born in winter have a higher risk of certain diseases in adulthood, such as cardiovascular disorders?
Did you know that rhinoviruses, the main cause of the common cold, occur more frequently in winter due to weather conditions that are favorable to their transmission?
Did you know that the lack of natural light in winter can disrupt our biological clock, leading to changes in our immune system and making us more vulnerable to infections?
Did you know that the flu viruses survive longer in the cold and dry air of winter, thus facilitating their spread from one person to another?
In winter, conditions favor the spread of viruses and weaken our immune system.
Yes, colds are indeed more frequent in winter due to various environmental factors.
Cold air can dry out the airways, making them more vulnerable to infections.
A lack of vitamin D in winter can weaken our immune system, making us more susceptible to getting sick.
Yes, indoor social interactions can promote the spread of viruses, increasing the risks of contagion.
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