CW Vol 2 Ed. 39 - Colds & Flus 101: Contagion, Myths, and Real Fixes
Fall in Maine means flannel shirts, hot coffee… and unfortunately, the return of colds and flus. Neuroscientist Dr. Andrew Huberman recently shared the science of how these viruses really spread, when you’re most contagious, and what actually works to prevent them. Spoiler: the biggest risk might be right under your nose (literally).
How Colds & Flus Sneak In
Cold virus can survive up to 24 hours on a doorknob, phone, or coffee pot handle.
Flu virus is weaker — only about 2 hours.
Your skin is a superhero cape. Touching a surface won’t infect you.
The problem? Your eyes, nose, and mouth are open doors.
Most infections happen when we deliver viruses to ourselves by rubbing eyes, scratching noses, or chewing pens.
“If you’re coughing, sneezing, blowing your nose, and telling people ‘I’m not contagious, you’re lying.”
— Dr. Andrew Huberman
🤧 When Are You Contagious?
Colds
Most contagious when symptoms are at their worst (sneezing, runny eyes, stuffed up).
Myth: “After a couple days I’m not contagious anymore.” → FALSE. If you’ve still got symptoms, you’re still spreading.
Flu
You can be contagious 24 hours before symptoms start.
Most contagious during the 3 days of peak symptoms (fever, cough, aches).
Prevention That Actually Works
Vitamin D: 1,000–2,000 IU/day is safe for most adults. Especially important in Maine winters.
Zinc: 90–100 mg/day at the first sign of a cold can shorten it. Take with food.
Vitamin C: Mega-dosing doesn’t work (and may upset your stomach).
Echinacea: Weak evidence, not reliable.
NAC (N-Acetyl Cysteine): Loosens mucus, may lower flu risk, and helps clear sinuses.
Conscious Awareness, Not Fear
You don’t have to stop shaking hands at work — but during cold & flu season, a little extra caution helps.
With family and friends, you might think twice about hugs or cheek-kisses if you’re trying to avoid getting sick.
Remember: viruses spread most often when we deliver them to ourselves by rubbing eyes, scratching noses, or touching our mouths.
A little awareness during peak cold & flu season goes a long way.
Quick Tip: Cold & Flu Defense
Wash hands before eating or touching your face.
Wipe down shared tools, phones, and handles.
Add Vitamin D as days shorten.
If you’re coughing/sneezing → stay home if possible.
Bonus tip: Sleep. Skipping rest triples your risk of catching a cold.
Colds and flus aren’t just “out there” waiting to pounce. They’re hitchhiking on your hands, catching a ride to your eyes and nose. A little awareness, some Vitamin D and zinc, and respect for coworkers when sick can keep our crews — and families — healthier this season.
Learn More
Listen to Dr. Andrew Huberman’s podcast where he discusses in depth the prevention and treatment of colds and flus here. This is a lengthy podcast, but there are time stamps so you can easily listen in bite sized pieces!
View this newsletter here.
9/24/2025