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endoself comments on You'll die if you do that - Less Wrong Discussion

15 Post author: sixes_and_sevens 12 May 2011 10:27AM

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Comment author: jdinkum 12 May 2011 09:26:39PM 5 points [-]

And extremely common one in my cultural (USA) context is that "being cold" can give you a "cold". According to common wisdom, being out in cold weather with wet hair and no hat will cause you to be infected with a rhinovirus.

The expression encapsulating this is "You'll catch your death!"

When travelling in Eastern Europe, I found a similar attitude towards drafts from a couple locals. The safest was to keep all windows and doors to the outside closed (in a room or car). Opening one portal was frowned on. Two or more (creating airflow) was taboo and would cause sickness.

Comment author: endoself 13 May 2011 01:10:13AM 11 points [-]

Prolonged exposure to cold temperatures can weaken the immune system, so the advice is at least helpful, though false.

Comment author: SilasBarta 13 May 2011 03:33:39PM 10 points [-]

Also see: "A gun is always loaded."