Cold weather and being sick always seem to go hand-in-hand, but that does not necessarily have to be the case. Wintertime illness is more prevalent because viruses circulate better in colder weather, plus we tend to be in close quarters with one another – including our germs – during the winter months. Whereas in warmer months we can be outdoors, wintertime typically means more confined spaces where germs and disease can spread more easily.
The holiday season combined with cold weather creates a perfect storm for illnesses to attack. If you consider holiday traditions alone, most activities encourage people to be together in spaces where germs can spread: catching a show, shopping at the mall, or attending a holiday party. Plus, more families are traveling during the holiday season, so germs are transferred across long distances, meaning a particular viral strain can start on one side of the country and make its way to the other side by way of a few holiday travelers.
In addition to the weather conspiring against our immune systems, the holidays themselves can wreak havoc on our bodies. The holiday season is usually stressful for people with multiple demands of getting greeting cards out on time, finding that just-right gift for everyone on your list, and dealing with family gatherings. It’s no wonder why some people start to wonder if it really is the most wonderful time of the year. Additionally, holiday parties can mean staying up later than you are used to and not eating as many healthy foods as you would like. All these things working together can make your body even more susceptible to a cold or flu bug being passed around.
So how can you keep you and your family well this holiday season? Read on for our tips below:
- Wash your hands – a lot.
- Get the flu vaccine.
- Drink plenty of fluids, especially water.
- Get enough sleep.
- Share the burden of holiday entertaining with others.
Being sick during the holidays is the worst, so do your best to care for yourself and your family, while still enjoying all this season has to offer.
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