A new study has found that cold temperatures might get you cold nose.

The study, conducted by the researchers at Yale University, found that common cold causing rhinovirus becomes more active at the temperatures lower than that of the average body.

Whether cold temperatures contribute in catching up a cold? — This had remained a million dollar question for a long time. But this new study has offered new outlook about this widely considered medical myth.

According to the researchers, even a bit chill raises the pace at which rhinovirus multiplies in lab mice.

The study, which was published on Monday, showed that cold temperatures also contribute in triggering changes in the body’s immune-system that allow the viruses to replicate virtually unchecked.

A previous study, conducted in the year 1960, found that the rhinovirus multiply at more quicker rate at 33 degrees Celsius (91.4 Fahrenheit) than at body’s normal temperature (37C, or 98.6F.).

The current study also extended the findings of 1960 by highlighting the three biological effects of chilly air that can raise the possibility of developing a cold.

The exposure to rhinovirus remains a prerequisite for catching cold nose. As soon as the viruses enter the cells of the nasal cavity, the inhalation of cold winter air exposes them to the chill. This triggers replication of the virus and also causes the body’s immune system to respond less aggressively.

The new study was published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.