Many people across cultures grow up hearing that cold weather makes you sick. Going outside without a coat, breathing in cold air, sleeping in a chilly room, getting caught in cold rain or snow, or simply feeling chilled are often blamed for causing colds or flu.

Cold weather doesn’t directly cause colds, but it can dry nasal passages and keep people indoors, making viruses like flu, RSV and COVID-19 spread more easily.

The Salvation Army of Waco is preparing to respond to the upcoming winter weather by opening its Emergency Shelter. The organization says the shelter is opened when conditions become dangerous for those without adequate shelter.