Can You Really Catch A Cold by Getting Wet in the Rain? + A Euky BearGiveaway

I've heard my lola say it, I've heard my mom say it, and now, when we are headed out and it's raining and my kids refuse to open up an umbrella, I say it, too: "open your umbrella or you'll get sipon."

But can you really catch a cold by getting wet in the rain?

I turned to one of my local favorite authors who is also a physician for answers. "Ha-Ha-Hatsinggg!" is a book writtten by Luis Gatmaitan, MD.  It answers kids curiosities about what makes us sick in the first place. I bought the kids this book from the bookstore, and the kids and I read it one night. The author, also known as Tito Doc, is a practicing physician. He is also a four-time Don Carlos Palanca Memorial awardee for Literature. 

The answer to this age-old question is complicated. But Tito Doc simplifies it for us.

Tito Doc says: No, not directly. Colds and flu are caused by viruses, its just that your immune system is often more run down when you are out in the rain and cold and shivering, and so it is easier for you to catch something.

Long story short, the author shares with us what we should do to avoid getting a cold:

1. Avoid crowded places.

2. Always sneeze into handkerchief when you have colds to avoid spreading the virus.

3. Wash hands frequently.

4. Don't forget to bring an umbrella or raincoat during the rainy season.