Winter in Gauteng brings cooler temperatures and seasonal illnesses, but it also fuels many misconceptions about health. These myths can lead to poor choices and unnecessary worry. To help you stay informed, here are the top 15 winter health myths debunked by local medical experts, based on trusted sources and scientific evidence.
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1. You Lose Most of Your Body Heat Through Your Head
Myth: Most body heat escapes through the head.
Fact: Heat loss is proportional to the exposed skin surface. Your head isn’t a special heat escape zone; it only feels colder because it’s often uncovered.
2. Drinking Hot Liquids Warms You Faster Than Cold Liquids
Myth: Hot drinks raise your core body temperature quickly.
Fact: Hot drinks may feel comforting but can actually cause your body to lower its core temperature slightly. Hydration is key, regardless of liquid temperature.
3. Going Outside Without a Coat Will Make You Sick
Myth: Exposure to cold weather causes colds and flu.
Fact: Viruses cause illnesses, not cold weather. People tend to get sick more in winter because they spend more time indoors, increasing virus transmission.
4. Vitamin C Prevents Colds
Myth: Taking vitamin C supplements stops colds.
Fact: Vitamin C supports the immune system but does not prevent colds. A balanced diet usually provides enough vitamin C.
5. Women Are Colder Than Men
Myth: Women feel colder because their core temperature is lower.
Fact: Women’s core body temperature is generally higher, but their extremities may feel colder due to circulation differences.
6. Fluctuating Temperatures Make You Sick
Myth: Rapid temperature changes cause illness.
Fact: Illness is caused by viruses and bacteria, not temperature swings. However, people with asthma may experience symptoms during fluctuations.
7. You Always Need Antibiotics for the Flu
Myth: Antibiotics cure flu and colds.
Fact: Flu and colds are viral; antibiotics only work for bacterial infections, not viruses.
RELEVANT ARTICLE: Flu-Proof Your Home: 10 Gauteng Lifestyle Hacks to Stay Healthy This Winter
8. You Can’t Catch the Same Virus Twice
Myth: Once infected, you’re immune forever.
Fact: Flu viruses mutate annually, so you can catch different strains each year.
9. The Flu Is Just a Bad Cold
Myth: Flu symptoms are mild like a cold.
Fact: Flu can cause severe illness and complications, unlike the common cold.
10. If You’ve Had the Flu Vaccine, You Can’t Get the Flu
Myth: Flu shots guarantee full protection.
Fact: Vaccines reduce risk and severity but don’t guarantee complete immunity.
11. Sunscreen Is Not Needed in Winter
Myth: Sunscreen is only for summer.
Fact: UV rays reflect off snow and can cause skin damage even in winter; sunscreen is still necessary.
12. You Shouldn’t Exercise in Cold Weather
Myth: Cold air is harmful during exercise.
Fact: Exercise in winter is safe and can boost energy and mood.
13. Alcohol Warms You Up
Myth: Drinking alcohol helps you stay warm.
Fact: Alcohol causes blood vessels to dilate, increasing heat loss and lowering core temperature.
14. You Should Avoid Showering in Cold Weather
Myth: Showering in winter makes you sick.
Fact: Showering does not cause illness; viruses do. Good hygiene helps prevent sickness.
15. Hot Baths Cure Colds and Flu
Myth: Hot baths can cure respiratory infections.
Fact: While hot baths can relieve symptoms, they don’t cure infections. Rest and medical care are essential.
CHECK OUT: Top Flu Prevention Tips for Winter 2025
Additional Winter Health Tips from Gauteng Health
- Be cautious with heating appliances to prevent burns, especially in informal settlements where paraffin stoves and open flames are common.
- Practice good hygiene and get vaccinated to reduce flu risk.
- Stay hydrated and dress appropriately for fluctuating temperatures.
Stay Healthy
Understanding these common winter health myths helps Gauteng residents make informed decisions. Remember, viruses — not cold weather — cause most winter illnesses. Protect yourself with good hygiene, vaccinations, and sensible precautions to enjoy a healthy winter season.
