‘Twas the evening before Christmas, when inside the residence, cold and flu viruses were stirring — and your relative’s child just coughed directly into your face. A rendition of this scenario based on the classic Christmas poem “A Visit From St. Nicholas” might have been featured in a humorous cough syrup commercial, warning about the risk of falling ill during the holidays. However, it is indeed the season for illnesses to spread among families and friends like unwanted presents.
Dr. Natasha Crowcroft, Canada’s acting chief public health officer, emphasized the importance of taking care of one another during the holiday season, especially when gathering with loved ones of all ages. The country is currently facing a spike in flu cases, as reported by the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC), with the predominant H3N2 strain being more likely to cause severe symptoms, particularly in seniors and young children.
While getting vaccinated is the primary defense recommended by doctors and health officials, there are additional measures individuals can adopt to maintain good health. Before embarking on a series of festive celebrations, here are some useful tips to help ensure a flu-free holiday season.
Stick to the basics:
Being in close proximity to groups of people heightens the risk of contracting illnesses, according to Toronto pharmacist Deanna Kang. Therefore, taking preventive measures to avoid contact with viruses becomes crucial. Viruses like influenza and SARS-CoV-2 enter the body through the nose, throat, and lungs, either through inhaling saliva or mucus particles or via contact transmission from surfaces. Ensuring frequent handwashing and avoiding touching the face without clean hands are essential practices recommended by PHAC.
Cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing and maintain overall wellness through sufficient sleep, regular exercise, and a balanced diet, as advised by Dr. Michaeline McGuinty, an infectious diseases specialist at the Ottawa Hospital.
Mask and be merry:
Although COVID-19 mask mandates have been lifted in many places, some healthcare facilities in Canada have reinstated mandatory mask policies due to the seasonal surge in respiratory illnesses. Wearing masks, especially in indoor settings with sick individuals, can help reduce the risk of infection, as highlighted by infectious disease specialists.
Though airplanes are generally considered safe due to efficient air filtration systems, wearing masks in crowded places like airports is advisable to minimize exposure to germs from surfaces. The Government of Canada strongly recommends wearing masks to limit the spread of respiratory illnesses in public settings.
No place like home:
The simplest way to prevent the spread of illnesses is by staying home, particularly when feeling unwell. Honesty about one’s health status is crucial to safeguarding personal well-being and that of others. Avoiding social gatherings when sick helps prevent the spread of illnesses and protects the community, as emphasized by healthcare professionals.