22 NOVEMBER 1930, Page 43

DO HANDKERCHIEFS PROLONG COLDS ?

[To the Editor of the SPECTATOR.] SIR,—May I point out that it is the excessive use of the hand- kerchief which prolongs the cold ? When, as in the case of a cold; the mucous membrane is inflamed, mucus is secreted to deal with the infliction, and should not be removed more often than is necessary for comfort and decency. Apart from this, the inflammation is also often increased by incessantly worry- ing the nose with the handkerchief.—I am, Sir, &c.,