Being married puts people at greater risk of suffering from colds

The annual Fisherman's Friend Cold and Flu survey has revealed that one in five couples in Britain are struck down with a fever or flu at least once a month - while the figure is one in six for singletons.

It was found that those in relationships fall sick more frequently and have to take more days off work because of illness.

The research also highlighted that 26 per cent of married men going on daily walks with their pooch were more at risk of coming down with a monthly cold, in comparison to single women who have cats (18 per cent).

Dr Becky Spelman, a relationship psychologist, said: "While being close to a partner or family member can be essential, it also clearly increases the likelihood of sharing germs."

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