Don’t let winter illnesses win: how to avoid getting sick.
When the weather turns cold, it feels like everyone is sniffling or coughing. Winter brings cozy nights, hot cocoa and unfortunately, more chances to get sick. But here’s the good news—you don’t have to spend the season fighting off illness. By learning why people get sick in winter and following simple tips, you can enjoy a healthier, happier winter.
Why are illnesses more common in winter?
Have you ever noticed that people seem to get sick more often in winter? It’s not just your imagination. Winter creates the perfect conditions for germs to spread.
Here’s why:
- We’re indoors more. When it’s cold outside, we spend more time inside where germs spread easily in closed spaces.
- Dry air. Cold weather and indoor heaters dry out your nose and throat. This makes it harder for your body to fight off viruses.
- Less sunlight. In winter, shorter days mean less sunlight. This can lower vitamin D levels, which helps keep your immune system strong.
Some viruses, like the flu and RSV, also prefer cold, dry air, so they spread faster during winter months.
Practical tips to avoid getting sick.
Staying healthy in winter isn’t as hard as it seems. With these simple steps, you can protect yourself and your family:
- Wash your hands often
Use soap and water to scrub your hands for 20 seconds. Don’t forget to wash before eating and after being in public. - Get moving
Regular exercise boosts your immune system and prepares your body to fight germs. - Eat healthy foods
Include fruits, vegetables and foods rich in vitamin C (like oranges) and vitamin D (like fortified milk or fish). - Stay hydrated
Drink water even if you don’t feel thirsty. It helps your body stay strong and your throat moist. - Bundle up
Wear warm clothes when you go outside. Staying warm helps your body focus on fighting off germs. - Clean often
Wipe down things people touch a lot, like doorknobs, phones and light switches. - Get your flu shot
Vaccines protect you from serious illnesses like the flu. - Get plenty of sleep
Your body needs rest to stay healthy. Aim for 7-9 hours a night.
When to see a doctor.
Sometimes, even with your best efforts, you still get sick. Knowing when to see a doctor can help you recover faster:
- For colds or flu. If you have a fever that doesn’t go away, trouble breathing, or symptoms that get worse, it’s time to get checked out.
- For breathing problems. If you or your child is wheezing, has a hard time breathing, or can’t stay hydrated, visit a doctor right away.
- If you’re unsure. When in doubt, it’s better to see a doctor than to wait and worry.
CityMD urgent care makes it easy to get help when you’re sick. You can walk in without an appointment and see a doctor who’ll get you feeling better.
We’re ready to care for you.
Visit any CityMD urgent care location in your community today for an evaluation with one of our expert providers.