Myths And Facts About The Common Cold And Flu To Know Right Now

Myth: Avoid Dairy When Sick

It is often recommended that dairy should be avoided when sick, as it creates more mucus. However, increased mucus production is one of the body's defense mechanisms to fight off viruses and infections. Studies have been designed and conducted to examine the theory claiming dairy products contribute to producing more mucus, but the outcomes of these studies proved it does not.

Dairy can make mucus thicker and temporarily coat the mouth and throat. However, there is no real reason to avoid dairy with a common cold other than the annoyance of thick phlegm. Drinking more water, running a humidifier, or using saline sprays or sinus rinses will help alleviate the effects.

Fact: You Can Calculate How Far You Should Stand From Someone That Is Ill

Yes, how far away to stand from someone who is sick can be calculated. When someone coughs, sneezes, or talks, they disperse rhinovirus microbes that can travel up to six feet. A study found a sneeze can travel a visible distance of almost two feet at approximately fifteen feet per second and a single breath can travel the same distance, though at a much slower speed of 4.5 feet per second. With that being said, it is crucial to remain six feet away from those who are ill to stay clear from the cold-causing rhinovirus.