This is a myth. When the cough is caused by a lung infection such as the common cold or an influenza virus, the spread of infection is possible. However, if the cough is caused by asthma, chronic pulmonary disorders, or allergies, it is not contagious.64
Myth! Studies have shown that antibiotics cannot treat a cold. However, antibiotics can be prescribed when the cough is caused by bacterial infections like pneumonia.1,6,64
Fact! A study from the UAE has shown that adolescents who are exposed to tobacco at home or with friends are more likely to report diagnosed asthma, wheezing and dry cough.65
Not totally true. According to the CDC, vaccines can prevent pertussis or whooping cough.66 As coughing is one of the main symptoms of the flu and the common cold,41 the yearly flu shot can protect against seasonal influenza.67 However, vaccination will not protect you against the common cold.68
This is a fact! Cold air is often dry which can irritate the airways of people with chronic lung disease, like asthma, COPD, or bronchitis. This can cause wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath. Moreover, with cold weather comes cold and flu season.69
This is a myth! The texture of milk can make some people feel that their mucus is thicker and their saliva harder to swallow. However, there is no evidence that milk leads to an increase in mucus production.
Milk is an important source of calcium and vitamins for children.70
This is a fact. A study has shown that a hot drink provided immediate and sustained relief from symptoms of runny nose, cough, sneezing, sore throat, chilliness and tiredness.71
Mouth breathing results in the mouth becoming dry. This increases the risk of mouth and throat infections.
It also results in pollutants and germs being drawn directly into the lungs. However, breathing through the nose will warm, humidify, and cleanse/filter air to prepare it for delivery to the lungs.72
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