Trick or Truth? Halloween Health Myths Busted by Condrell Primary Care

At Condrell Primary Care, we’re here to help you separate tricks from truth, so you and your family can stay healthy and safe! Not just on Halloween night, but all year round.

1. “10,000 steps a day is all the exercise you need.”

Trick!
You’ve probably heard that 10,000 steps a day is the magic number, but that’s not quite the full story. Recent studies show that as few as 6,000–8,000 steps a day can still lower your risk of early mortality, especially for older adults [1]. 

What really matters is getting at least 150 minutes of moderate cardiovascular exercise per week. While trick-or-treating with family and friends does count as movement, you’ll want to keep up that pace year-round.

2. “Flu shots can give you the flu.”

Trick!
We hear this one every year, but rest assured, flu shots cannot give you the flu. The vaccine contains an inactive form of the virus, which means it helps your body build protection without causing illness [3].

And good news: Condrell Primary Care offers flu shots at both our Washington, DC and Maryland locations! Don’t wait, flu season is already creeping in. Protect yourself and your loved ones by scheduling your flu shot today (Walk-ins are welcomed for established patients). 

3. “Cold weather causes colds.”

Trick!
Nope! Cold weather doesn’t cause colds, germs do. Viruses and bacteria can spread through contact, sneezing, coughing, and touching shared surfaces [5].

While you’re out trick-or-treating, remember these quick tips to keep germs away:

• Use hand sanitizer often in between houses and wash your hands when you get home from trick or treating
• Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze
• Stay home and rest if you’re already sick! 

4. “Green mucus means you need antibiotics.”

Trick!
Green or yellow mucus might look alarming, but it doesn’t always mean you have a bacterial infection. The color actually comes from dead immune cells doing their job! [2].

Most colds are viral, and antibiotics won’t help with those. However, if your symptoms worsen, last longer than 7-10 days, or are accompanied by a fever, our team at Condrell Primary Care can evaluate your symptoms and guide you on the next steps. 

5. “Eating too much candy can cause cavities and other health problems.”

Truth!
Sorry, sweet tooths, this one’s true! On Halloween night, the average American child consumes over 16 times the recommended daily amount of sugar [4].

Excess sugar can lead to cavities and other health issues. So enjoy those treats in moderation and remember to:

• Brush and floss after eating candy
• Drink water to rinse your mouth
• Save sweets for after meals, when saliva flow is higher and helps protect your teeth

6. “Trick or Trip? Falls are more likely on Halloween.”

Truth!
It’s easy to stumble when costumes drag, sidewalks are dark, and excitement runs high. In fact, falls and injuries tend to increase on Halloween night. Stay safe by: 

• Carrying flashlights or glow sticks
• Wearing reflective clothing so drivers can see you
• Choosing costumes that fit properly and don’t block your vision or movement

Final Treat: Stay Healthy All Year with Condrell Primary Care

Halloween might come once a year, but your health matters every day. As we approach the end of the year, it’s the perfect time to schedule your annual physical before schedules fill up and before benefits reset! Call us or schedule your appointment online, and let’s keep your health from turning into a Halloween trick!