You’ve likely heard at least one of these before – “Come inside before it rains and you get sick!”, “Don’t drink that milk; it will make you more phlegmy!” “Green snot? They need antibiotics!”
We are busting the top 5 winter illness myths, giving you the facts (and debunking the fiction).
Myth 1: Cold Weather + Wet Hair Or Bare Feet Causes Colds and Flu
One of the most enduring myths is that exposure to cold weather directly leads to catching a cold or the flu – especially with wet hair! Viruses like the common cold and influenza are spread through close contact with infected individuals or surfaces. While cold weather might make it easier for viruses to spread (more indoor play/contact for kids), it’s not the temperature or being wet that makes you sick. Teaching your children proper handwashing techniques and encouraging them to avoid touching their faces can help prevent the spread of germs.
Myth 2: Green Snot = a Bacterial Infection
Parents often worry that green or yellow mucus indicates a bacterial infection that requires antibiotics. In reality, the colour of mucus is not a reliable indicator of the type of infection. During a viral cold, mucus can change colour as the immune system responds to the infection. Of course, speak to your GP if you are concerned for any reason, though!
Myth 3: Eating Dairy Products Increases Mucus Production
A common belief is that dairy products, like milk, increase mucus production, exacerbating cold symptoms. However, according to the Australia Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy (ASCIA) research has shown that dairy does not significantly affect mucus production. If your child enjoys dairy and it is part of their balanced diet, avoiding it during a cold is unnecessary. Ensure they stay hydrated and maintain a varied diet to support their immune system.
Myth 4: Steam Inhalation Is The Cure!
Steam inhalation may be a popular at-home remedy for sinus congestion – but it should not be used in children. There is a real risk of burns in little ones when using this method. Remember that scald injuries are the most common burn injury for children, and steam inhalation is a potential scald hazard. Furthermore, steam inhalation may not be as beneficial for all respiratory illnesses as many believe! For example, steam and humidifiers are no longer recommended as a treatment when it comes to croup. There is no evidence to suggest they are beneficial.
Myth 5: Antibiotics Are The Cure!
Antibiotics are powerful medications that are effective against bacterial infections but not against viral infections like the common cold or flu. Despite this, it is not uncommon for parents/carers to request antibiotics from their healthcare providers when their children are sick with a cold or flu. It’s important to understand that antibiotics will not cure these illnesses and can even contribute to developing antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
But wait… there’s more! Check out our live stream from last Winter, where we discuss some of the above and other common myths about fever, cold sores, and more.
References
Harvard Health Blog ‘Don’t judge your Mucous by its’ colour‘
Royal Children’s Hospital (RCH) Fact Sheet – Croup
ASCIA – Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy – Milk, Mucus and Cough
Healthdirect – Medicines for cold and flu
BRANZ – Burns Registry of Australia and New Zealand – Annual Report (2018/19)
Healthdirect – Coughs and Colds in Children
