Winter illness risk rises as Christmas nears amid flu surge

Winter illnesses are surging as Christmas approaches, with health services reporting high flu activity. NHS data show more than 3,100 flu patients occupying hospital beds on each day last week, underscoring the seasonal burden on the health system.

Experts say the rise is not simply bad luck. Dr. Simon Feldhaus, a preventive medicine specialist, describes a phenomenon sometimes called leisure sickness, in which people endure weeks of stress and postpone symptoms until a break in work arrives. Holidays also bring travel, disrupted sleep, dietary changes, alcohol use and increased social contact, all of which can heighten infection risk when the immune system is already strained.

To reduce the risk of illness, experts emphasize building resilience in the weeks before Christmas. Much of the immune function is located in the gut, so diet and gut health are crucial for the body's first line of defense. If the gut barrier and microbiome are compromised, immune responses can be weakened at the outset. Clinicians recommend focusing on gut health, correcting micronutrient deficiencies and avoiding lifestyle stressors that suppress immunity.

Supplement strategies commonly discussed include vitamin D, vitamin C, zinc, omega-3 fatty acids and selenium. However, zinc should not be taken daily over the long term because it can upset the stomach and interfere with mineral absorption; a short course at the onset of illness may help limit viral replication.

In terms of protective measures, some hospitals have reintroduced mask requirements for patients and staff. While universal masking is not being proposed, experts say face coverings can be useful in specific situations. Virologist Laurence Young of Warwick University notes that if you have any symptoms, even a sniffle, you should consider wearing a mask, and you should also wear one in crowded areas or when in contact with the elderly and immunocompromised during the busy holiday season.

Vaccination remains a central pillar of prevention. England's annual flu vaccination programme began on October 1 and is offered free to those aged 65 and over, people under 65 in clinical risk groups, care home residents and carers, pregnant women, children, frontline health and social care workers, and close contacts of immunosuppressed individuals. Others can opt to receive the vaccine privately at pharmacies for around £20. Dr. Baumgardt, a practising GP and senior lecturer, says there are still flu vaccines available and encourages eligible people to check with their GP or a nearby pharmacy. The aim is to prime the immune system as winter viral spread continues into the new year.

Beyond vaccination, nutrition also plays a role in preventing illness. Chicken soup, a staple of traditional wisdom, may offer real benefits for acute respiratory infections. A recent review found that chicken-based soups prepared with vegetables and herbs can support recovery through hydration, warmth and nutritional content, with possible anti-inflammatory effects helping symptoms.

Overall, health authorities urge people to plan ahead, to rest as needed, and to seek medical advice if symptoms worsen or high fever develops. By combining vaccination, sensible protective measures and attention to gut health and overall wellness, individuals can better weather the holiday season while reducing the risk of falling ill at the very moment many hope to enjoy time off.