With cold and flu season comes all the die-hard myths about the seasonal sniffles. Margaret Wade, MD, Family Medicine Physician on staff at Adventist Hinsdale Hospital, separates fact from fiction to help your family stay healthy.

Myth: January is too late to get a flu shot.
Fact: “Cold and flu season can last from November through April,” says Dr. Wade. “Getting a flu shot can still be very effective.” In fact, she says, it is the single best way to prevent catching the flu.

“Everyone should get a flu shot, but those with more vulnerable immune systems – children, the elderly, pregnant women, people with asthma, diabetes or heart disease – should be extra diligent about getting immunized.”

Myth: Playing in the wet snow leads to colds.
Fact: Mom’s heart was in the right place when she warned you about this, but the truth is viruses cause colds and flu, not cold air. “Spending time outside might give you the sniffles for a few minutes, but it won’t cause a cold,” says Dr. Wade.

Combat cold and flu viruses by washing your hands frequently, coughing and sneezing into the crease of your arm and using disinfecting wipes to clean your phone, keyboard, toys and other items you and your children frequently touch.

Myth: Going to work or school with a fever isn’t a big deal.
Fact: “You should never go to work or send your kids to school with a fever,” Dr. Wade warns. “Influenza is extremely contagious, even among otherwise healthy people.”

You might not want to miss a meeting or see your kids get behind in their homework, but slogging through the day with a fever isn’t a good idea. “You’re most contagious the day before you start feeling ill, but the first day of illness is still dangerous in terms of spreading a virus to others,” says Dr. Wade. 

Myth: Multi-symptom cold medicine works best.
Fact: Rest, fluids and an over-the-counter fever and pain reducer like ibuprofen or Tylenol are the best ways to relieve your cold and flu symptoms, according to Dr. Wade.

“Multi-symptom cold medications may contain active ingredients that you don’t need,” she says. “And they could actually have adverse effects when combined with other medications.” If you’re caring for a sick child, remember aspirin is off limits for children and teenagers because of the risk of Reyes Syndrome, which can be serious.

Myth: There’s no reason to see a doctor for the flu.
Fact: Most people won’t need to seek medical attention for the flu, but there are some red flags that should send you straight to your doctor. “If the flu goes away and comes back right away, there could be a secondary infection,” Dr. Wade says. A fever of 103 degrees Fahrenheit or higher for more than three days, shortness of breath, dehydration, severe sinus pain or a change in your mental state, are all signs that you need to see a doctor.

Don’t go another year without a doctor. Call 866-533-7968 to find a physician for your family today.