Do you get colds and the flu throughout the year? If so, you should know some myths about colds and the flu.
On The Today Show with Kathie Lee and Hoda, a segment was devoted to talking about colds and flu myths.
Kathie Lee and Hoda were given a statement about colds and the flu. They were to determine if the statement was true or a myth.
KISSING
Kissing is one of the easiest ways to spread a cold. You would think this is true, but it is a MYTH. Most viruses seep in through the eyes and nose; not through your mouth. A study showed that only 8% of those who kissed someone who was sick ended up sick themselves.
STAYING IN HOTELS
You can catch a cold from staying in a hotel room behind someone else who had a cold. This is TRUE. About 1/3 of hard surfaces in a hotel room aren't cleaned after a guest leaves. The remote control, doorknobs, light switches and other areas are still full of germs.
USE A NEW TOOTHBRUSH AFTER A COLD
You should buy a new toothbrush after you have recovered from a cold. While this seems to be true, it is a MYTH. There is no need to change your toothbrush after a cold. When you are sick, your immune system produces specific antibodies for the exact virus you have and stick around for a while so your body does not get the same virus again.
VITAMIN C
Consuming Vitamin C is a sure way to fight a cold. This is a MYTH. No study has ever shown that Vitamin C ward off or help you recover from a cold or the flu.
CHICKEN SOUP
Chicken soup helps relieve symptoms of a cold. People have been saying this for years, and it is TRUE. Leaning over and breathing in that warm soup helps you with decongestion. The broth helps hydrate you. The vitamins and minerals in the soup also help with the symptoms of the cold.
WET HEAD
Going outside in chilly weather with a wet head will cause a cold. This is a MYTH. Colds are caused by viruses, not wet heads.
Watch the VIDEO on the left.
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