Winter is synonymous with runny noses, flu episodes, and a fresh supply of tissues. Pop culture and your grandmother may have led you to believe that stepping out on a cold day will give you a nasty cold. In reality, the chilly weather is far from the guilty party, and the culprits are bacteria and viruses. You see, they don't thrive when it’s frosty outside, but paradoxically, you tend to fall sick more often. Why so?

Well, the answer lies in indoor gatherings and the decreased humidity of the air. When the weather opts for a cold demeanor, humans choose the cozy indoors. This leads to closer proximity with fellow humans and consequently an increased exposure to germs. In addition, the dry air of winter months can lower your defenses, making it easier for infections to happen.

Now, if you're part of the ‘more susceptible’ category due to chronic conditions or a compromised immune system, a simple viral illness can have more severe ramifications. Influenza, for instance, can lead to complications like pneumonia. There's also a chance of getting a secondary infection from opportunistic bacteria. Other chronic conditions, like asthma, diabetes, heart disease, can worsen and pose serious threats to people above 65, pregnant women, and young children.

Fending off these illnesses may sound like a Herculean task, but you can strengthen your fortress - the immune system. No, we're not suggesting you stock up on immune-boosting powders and supplements from your local store. Real, substantial immunity boost comes from regular vaccines like those for the flu and pneumonia. A balanced diet offering essential nutrients is another way to keep you healthier. A multivitamin or mineral supplement can supplement your food intake, primarily if your meals lack nutritional balance.

Embracing the outdoors, irrespective of the chill, also assists your health cause. Your direct interaction with the sun's UV light will improve your vitamin D levels, lifting your overall mood and potentially fending off Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). It's also a chance to refresh beyond the indoor confines.

In summary, don't blame the cold for your seasonal sniffles, chills, and sneezes. They're courtesy of increased indoor huddles and lowered humidity. Your defense strategy? Washing your hands, covering your mouth while coughing or sneezing, getting the right vaccinations, having a balanced diet and greeting the outdoors every once in a while. Let's chill this winter, in good health.