Holiday Health Guide: Protect Yourself from Flu and Colds
- Doctor Anywhere Team
- Dec 15
- 4 min read
The holiday season in the Philippines is filled with joy, gatherings, and plenty of food. But while the festivities bring people closer together, they also create the perfect conditions for colds and flu to spread. Between crowded malls, office parties, and family reunions, viruses travel easily from one person to another, often leaving someone coughing, sneezing, or feverish just when they’re supposed to be celebrating.
The truth is, flu and colds are more than just seasonal inconveniences. The flu can cause serious complications, especially for children, older adults, and people with chronic illnesses. Colds, while usually mild, can still disrupt your plans and affect your energy when you need it most. The good news? With a few practical habits, you can lower your chances of getting sick and enjoy a healthier holiday season.
1. Get Your Flu Shot Early
The flu vaccine is one of the best ways to protect yourself and your loved ones. It helps reduce the risk of flu-related illness, hospitalization, and even death. Health experts recommend getting vaccinated before peak season, which in the Philippines often coincides with the cooler months.
According to the CDC, annual flu vaccination is recommended for everyone 6 months and older.
2. Wash Your Hands Frequently
Holiday parties mean handshakes, hugs, and passing around food — all opportunities for germs to spread. Washing your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to prevent illness. The World Health Organization (WHO) highlights proper hand hygiene as a key measure in reducing the spread of infections.
3. Keep Your Distance If You’re Feeling Sick
It may be hard to miss a gathering, but if you’re coughing or running a fever, it’s kinder (and safer) to stay home. A single decision to rest can prevent spreading the virus to an entire household.
4. Prioritize Rest and Sleep
Late nights and busy schedules can weaken your immune system. Make sure you’re still getting 7–9 hours of sleep to give your body the strength it needs to fight off infections. The Mayo Clinic notes that quality sleep boosts your body’s defenses against illness.
5. Stay Hydrated and Eat Nutritious Foods
It’s easy to indulge in sweets and fatty dishes during the holidays, but don’t forget your immune system needs proper fuel. Add fruits, vegetables, and plenty of water to your daily routine. Vitamin C-rich foods like oranges, guava, and calamansi are especially great for supporting immune health.
The holidays should be a time for joy, connection, and relaxation — not sneezing, coughing, or staying in bed with the flu. While we can’t completely eliminate the risk of getting sick, we can take meaningful steps to protect ourselves and those around us.
A little prevention now can mean a holiday season full of energy, laughter, and memories, without the tissues and medicine. And if you ever feel unwell during the rush of the season, remember that you can video consult a doctor anytime through the Doctor Anywhere app. Our general practitioners are available 24/7, with an average waiting time of less than five minutes. You can also book appointments with our specialists, including ENT specialists, infectious disease specialists, and mental health experts.
You may also consider subscribing to our affordable annual health plan, DA Healthwise. For just ₱99 per year, you’ll get discounted video consultations with our primary care doctors, plus access to specialists and mental health experts. You’ll also unlock DA Perks, where you can enjoy exclusive offers from trusted health and wellness brands, including Garmin, MyHealth Clinic, Tamang Alaga (RiteMED), and more.
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Leo San Diego is the content creator at Doctor Anywhere Philippines, where she specializes in making health information clear and easy to understand. With nearly a decade of writing experience, she has crafted everything from corporate communications to creative content.
She works with medical professionals to know the latest health trends, and health tips. Her goal is simple: to make reliable health information accessible and helpful for everyone. Outside of work, she enjoys baking brioche and other pastries, believing that taking care of your health includes enjoying rest days and good, thoughtfully prepared food.
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