With the arrival of the cold, numerous comments and popular beliefs begin to circulate, many of which have no scientific basis. Although it is true that more respiratory infections occur in winter, it is essential to understand what the real causes of this phenomenon are. Low temperatures, on the one hand, favor the proliferation of some viruses responsible for colds and flu.
On the other, the cold can slow down the functioning of the cilia, those small hairs present in the nose and respiratory tract that act as a natural filter against viruses. This slowdown makes them less effective in blocking pathogens, thus increasing the risk of infections. However, it is important to emphasize that the cold is not the direct cause of these diseases. There are other dynamics that determine a greater spread of viruses during the winter months, and many of the widespread beliefs about it are simply myths.
One of the most deeply rooted beliefs is that if a child is cold, he will inevitably get sick. In reality, it is important to know that viruses are mainly transmitted through the air. Respiratory droplets, emitted with saliva and mucus during sneezing or coughing, are the main vehicle of contagion. Furthermore, direct contact with contaminated surfaces can lead to transmission, especially if you touch your eyes, mouth or nose without washing your hands first.
Think, for example, of toys shared by several children in a closed space, or everyday gestures such as rubbing your nose after touching a contaminated table. Furthermore, some viruses can spread through feces, for example by changing the diaper of a sick child. From all this, it is clear that the cold, in itself, is not a factor of contagion: what makes you sick is contact with an infected person or with surfaces contaminated by a virus.
Many parents also believe that walking barefoot is a direct cause of colds. This idea, although widespread and passed down from generation to generation, has no scientific basis. Viruses do not enter through the feet, nor does walking barefoot affect the body's ability to fight pathogens. Children get sick because they come into contact with other children or adults who are already sick, who transmit infections through droplets of saliva, sneezes or contaminated hands.
Walking barefoot, even in the middle of winter, is therefore not a risky behavior for one's health. On the contrary, it is often a harmless habit that should not cause excessive concern in parents. Rather, the real risk lies in unprotected social interactions, such as playing too close to a peer who has the flu, without paying attention to personal hygiene.
Another widespread belief is linked to the consumption of orange juice. It is often thought that drinking a glass of orange juice every morning can prevent colds and flu thanks to its Vitamin C content. Although this vitamin is indeed important for the correct functioning of the body, consuming orange juice does not have a direct effect on the immune defenses. On the contrary, industrial fruit juices often only increase the level of sugar in the blood, without providing tangible benefits to the immune system.
The same goes for syrups, vitamin supplements or other home remedies that miraculously promise to prevent winter ailments. There is no scientific evidence that these products can actually increase the immune defenses. The most effective solution remains to ensure children have a balanced diet, rich in fruit, vegetables, proteins and complex carbohydrates. This combination provides them with all the vitamins and minerals necessary to best face the rigors of winter.
Furthermore, it is important to consider the environment in which children spend most of their time. During the winter months, closed and poorly ventilated spaces favor the circulation of viruses. Schools, nurseries and homes are often the main places where children contract infections, especially if hygiene is not paid. Frequently washing hands, avoiding sharing personal objects such as glasses or cutlery, and regularly ventilating rooms are simple but essential actions to limit the spread of viruses.
Finally, it is good to remember that the best way to protect the little ones is to provide them with the right information and habits. Teaching children to cover their mouths when they cough or sneeze, to wash their hands thoroughly after going to the bathroom and before eating, and not to get too close to anyone who is visibly sick can make a big difference. Physical activity and outdoor play, weather permitting, also help keep children healthy and active.
The cold, in itself, is not responsible for colds and flu; rather, it is essential to pay attention to personal hygiene, avoid direct contact with sick people and ensure that the little ones have a healthy and complete diet. Getting the right information is the first step to protecting children effectively and to facing the winter with greater serenity.