Why Do People Get Sick with Viruses in the Winter?

Why do people get sick with viruses in the winter? It’s almost uncanny – the temperature drops and BAM!, your kids are home sick, sometimes for what feels like for-ehhh-ver. What’s the reasoning behind this? 

It’s not as mysterious as you might think once you look closely. Here are a few reasons viruses are more common in the winter. 

 During the warmer months, people often gather outside. Think back to your summer BBQs, park playdates and the discovery of new hiking trails. When the days get cooler and darkness falls earlier, people are far more likely to take those outdoor gatherings inside. Once inside, there’s less fresh air and people are more crowded together. If the gathering is happening at a restaurant or concert venue, then suddenly there’s a lot more people with a lot more germs, which easily spread from person to person in close quarters. 

In addition to cold air sending people inside, some viruses reproduce more easily in cold air than in warm air, making it more likely to infect those in the vicinity.  

Another reason viruses seem to come alive in the winter is because the air tends to be drier. This can affect nasal passages, causing the delicate tissues to dry out and crack. This provides the perfect entry point for germs to enter the body and wreak havoc. 

When you have a virus, the best course of action is to treat the symptoms, stay away from others, and rest. Remember that antibiotics are only useful against bacterial infections like strep or whooping cough. Viruses like the flu or the common cold simply need to run their course. If you’re dealing with a sinus or ear infection, or a chest infection like bronchitis, a visit to immediate care or your primary health care provider may be required. These illnesses can be caused by either bacteria or a virus and a health care provider can help determine the best course of action. 

As the weather turns colder, remember that the old standbys of washing hands, getting plenty of rest and staying well hydrated can go a long way in keeping your immune system poised to fight off any germs that come your way.