“Put on your socks or you’ll catch a cold“ is a common warning from a grandparent to a child who is running around the house barefoot. It seems like a rule of life because this concept is so common. However, it is completely untrue, according to Spanish doctor and content creator Manuel Viso. “Colds don’t enter through the feet or come from the cold, they come through the air or the hands.” he says.
Viso speaks directly to older generations and explains how colds actually spread using simple terms in a TikTok video that quickly received thousands of views. His objective is to update a belief that has been passed down for decades using a combination of science and affection, instead of trying to criticize grandparents.
A cold does not start in your feet
Manuel Viso‘s video opens by saying: “Grandparents of the world, we need to talk.” “We adore you, but science tells us that colds are not brought on by the cold and do not enter through the feet.” He clarifies that colds are brought on by viruses rather than cold floors.
“They come from viruses that travel through the air or through the hands, and then enter through the nose, mouth, or eyes,” he continues, emphasizing the path of infection. When you touch your face with hands that have virus particles on them or inhale viruses from the air, you can get a cold.
He simplifies things even more by saying, “Even if a child is barefoot, if there is no virus, there is no cold… It is that simple. Can their feet feel chilly? Yes. Does that make them ill? No. Is it sometimes more comfortable to wear socks? Also yes,” he clarifies. Socks do not prevent viruses; But, they help with comfort.
Why the barefoot myth survives
Why do so many people still think that colds are caused by cold floors if science is so clear? Tradition plays a role in the solution. This is what many grandparents were told when they were younger. “I have been hearing that from grandparents my whole life” the TikTok user commented.
Viso is aware of this emotional aspect. He reassures grandparents instead of attacking them because of this. “Seeing a barefoot child is not a sign of danger, it is a sign of a happy childhood, so grandparents, you can breathe easy. Let them explore, run, feel… even without shoes,” he says in closing.
Many people in the comments appreciated the tone and the explanation. “I love how you explain everything, you are a genius,” one person wrote, while another simply noted: “They really like going barefoot.”
Barefoot freedom
By pointing out that viruses that enter through the mouth, nose, or eyes—instead of than the soles of our feet—cause colds, he highlights the importance of maintaining good hand hygiene, and being mindful of the air we share.
Here’s what experts advise if you want to keep your child from getting a cold:
- Avoid close contact if someone around you is sick: Because is spreads through the air.
- Clean your hands often: Kids love to touch everything, but it comes whit the risk of touching the virus too. Washing their hands often will help protect them from germs.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth: As Viso explained, that’s the most vulnerable place for the virus to enter the body.
- Take steps for cleaner air: Open windows or door to let the fresh air from outside purify your indoors.
And if you or someone else is already felling a bit sick, cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing and stay home while the virus is still too active.