5 Myths About Cold Infections Debunked

There's a reason why cold infections are known as the "common cold." With the average adult catching about three cold infections each year, it's the most widespread infectious illness in the world. Also known simply as a cold, a cold infection is a viral illness that's caused by the rhinovirus.

#1) You Can Only Catch Cold Infections During Winter

Cold infections are certainly more common during the winter, but that doesn't mean you are protected against them during other times of the year. Whether it's spring, summer, fall or winter, cold infections are always present. They are only more common during the winter because people spend more time indoors during the winter than other times of the year.

#2) There's Only One Cold Virus

Contrary to popular belief, there's not a single cold virus. While the exact number is unknown, research has shown that there are at least 200 different strains of the rhinovirus. With so many different strains, it's difficult for the immune system to develop the necessary antibodies to defend against cold infections, which is one of the reasons why cold infections are so common.

#3) You Can Get a Cold Vaccine

There are vaccines available to protect against flu infections, so conventional wisdom may lead you to believe that there are also vaccinates available to protect cold infections. Unfortunately, though, this isn't the case. Not only are there 200 strains of the rhinovirus, but many of these strains mutate to change their composition. As a result, it's nearly impossible for medical experts to produce an effective cold vaccine.

#4) Vitamin C Protects Against Cold Infections

Vitamin C is often touted as an all-natural home remedy to protect against or even shorten the duration of cold infections. While vitamin C certainly has its benefits -- it's a vitamin after all -- there's no evidence suggesting that it helps to fight cold infections. The best remedy for a cold infection is rest and hydration. As long as you drink plenty of fluids and avoid strenuous physical activity, a cold infection should pass in about a week.

#5) Antibiotics Can Treat Cold Infections

If you catch a cold infection, don't attempt to treat it using antibiotics. Upon the first sign of a cold infection, many people immediately start a round of antibiotics, believing the drug will help their body fight the infection. The problem with antibiotics, however, is that they work for bacterial infections. A cold infection is a viral infection, so antibiotics won't have any effect on the virus.