Cold Comfort

For any bloke that’s ever suffered from the dreaded ‘man cold’, only to receive resolute contempt and accusations of protracted exaggeration from your wife, girlfriend or significant other, prepare to rejoice in vindication.

According to a story on the BBC website, it’s been scientifically proven that women’s immune systems are significantly stronger than men’s, meaning that they’re able to stave off colds and flu more easily.

A Canadian study has found that the female sex hormone oestrogen is key in boosting the inflammatory process that helps ward off viruses and bacteria. This means women suffer less from the symptoms of colds and flu.

In addition, Dr Lesley Knapp, of the University of Cambridge, said: "Women are well known to be able to respond more robustly to infections, and to recover more quickly than men."

So, ladies, next time us chaps are supposedly wallowing in a mountain of snotty Kleenex and self-pity, just remember: you’re tougher than us, okay?