If illness is caused by germs then why are people constantly warning kids not to go outside with wet hair?

Question

Wet hair is not the culprit, running into a germ is the culprit, right? So I would be no more likely to "catch my death" in January snow naked with wet hair then I would shaking hands with a person with the flu.

Answer 1

Although true, catching a cold is not dependent on the tempurature. However, some germs survive better in the cold, and also being cold slows your heart rate which slows your immune system.

Answer 2

It's just that cold temperatures decrease your immune response and make it easier for a germ to take hold and cause you to become ill. The cold weather lowers your body's resistence and that's why we are advised to keep warm, stay hydrated, get enough sleep and to not "catch a chill" by going to bed with wet hair or staying too long outside without proper clothing and covering.

Answer 3

This always annoys me too. It is the germs, not being wet, and not being cold. Fresh air is good for you. Recirculated air in confined spaces is bad for you. People get sick more often in the winter because they're indoors more. Look at the Polar Bear Club. They swim on New Years Day out in the lake. I don't recall hearing of any of them "catching their death."

Answer 4

Exposure to extreme cold or heat can affect your body temperature, thus making you feel sick. Like heat stroke. You aren't really sick from a virus. Your body heat goes out the top of your head, so going out in the cold with wet hair causes a great loss in body heat, opens your pores and can cause congestion in your sinuses and your head , and sometimes your chest.

Answer 5

Your body is able to resist germs if it is in good condition. This means avoiding getting chilled. You need to eaat properly, exercise, get plenty of rest and fresh air and wash your hands. It is not the wet hair, it is the chance of getting chilled which does lower resistance. Avoid the germs, wash hands and get the fresh air.

Answer 6

Yeah, but it is still not healthy to go outside with wet hair if it is freezing outside. Maintaining body temperature is very important especially in children.

Answer 7

Yeah, it seems our old fart parents are still giving us out dated advice. I just laugh. It idiotic!!! Cold air will only irritate you if you already have a cold. I love the one if your wet, your going to get the flu. Hell no you wont!!