In what they called a “breakthrough,” scientists uncovered the biological reason we get more respiratory illnesses in winter — the cold air itself damages the immune response occurring in the nose.
“This is the first time that we have a biologic, molecular explanation regarding one factor of our innate immune response that appears to be limited by colder temperatures,” said rhinologist Dr. Zara Patel, a professor of otolaryngology and head and neck surgery at Stanford University School of Medicine in California.
Scientists finally know why people get more colds and flu in winter – KTVZ
Masks may protect – or rather delay – getting a cold but not for any of the reasons that experts had previously claimed:
“Not only do masks protect you from the direct inhalation of viruses, but it’s also like wearing a sweater on your nose,” he said.
Thus pulling your sweater up over your face might be as effective as an N95?
