10 ways to stay healthy this holiday season

The holidays are full of travel, togetherness, and way too many shared surfaces. It’s a wonderful time of year, but it’s also the perfect environment for viruses to spread. While it might feel like COVID-19 is a thing of the past, it still circulates, especially once cold-weather gatherings move indoors.

But don’t panic or avoid seeing people. You just need to stay smart and protect yourself and the people you care about.

1. Get Your Seasonal Vaccines

The latest COVID-19 booster and flu shots remain the most effective tools for reducing the risk of severe illness. Vaccines protect everyone, especially for older adults, kids, and anyone at higher risk.

2. Mask When It Makes Sense

You don’t have to wear a mask everywhere, but strategic masking should be the new normal. Wear a mask in crowded airports, public transport, busy indoor markets or packed holiday parties in stuffy rooms. These are times when using a mask is a great way to protect yourself and others.

3. Improve Airflow Whenever You Can

Crack a window, turn on a HEPA filter, or sit by an open doorway. Even small changes can clear out viral particles and make indoor gatherings safer without disrupting the holiday vibe.

4. Remember That COVID Often Spreads Silently

According to statistics, as many as 40% of COVID-19 infections in the United States are asymptomatic. That means nearly half the people who have it feel completely fine and can still pass it on to loved ones, making that one of the main reasons the virus continues to circulate during the holidays.

5. Wash Your Hands More Than Usual

It sounds obvious, but it works. Wash your hands with soap and water for around 20 seconds to prevent the spread of illness. You should do this before eating, after being in public, and after touching shared items –especially if you’re around kids. It’s a low effort measure with a big payoff.

6. Don’t Push Through Symptoms

Most people hate missing out on holiday events. However, if you’re sick — even mildly — staying at home prevents a chain reaction that could infect multiple people for days. Resting is the most generous choice you can make.

Plus, your body repairs itself during sleep, boosting your physical and mental health. And feeling under the weather provides the perfect excuse to curl up with some hot cocoa and a holiday movie.

7. Drink More Water

Between festive cocktails, salty snacks, and dry winter air, it’s easy to get dehydrated. A dry throat and nasal passages increase the chance of germs settling in. Water helps your body fight infections and recover faster.

8. Eat Foods That Support Immunity 

Add some immune-boosting foods to your diet, such as:

• Citrus fruits
• Spinach
• Garlic
• Ginger
• Yogurt
• Lean proteins

These keep your immune system sharp during the busiest season. Add these ingredients to soups, stews, or smoothies for a little health boost.

9. Manage Stress Where You Can

Chronic stress weakens your immune function. Take some deep breaths in the car, sit quietly for a few minutes before bed, or try meditation. Additionally, regular movement is an excellent way to de-stress and relieve anxiety.

10. Have a Basic Sick-Day Plan

A little preparation goes a long way, especially during the holidays when getting sick can throw off everyone’s plans. Keep a small stash of essentials so you don’t have to run to the store when you already feel terrible. Think of things like rapid tests, pain relievers, cough medicine, throat lozenges, tissues, and electrolytes.

A Better Holiday Starts With a Healthier You

Staying healthy this season is about being intentional. COVID-19 may not dominate headlines anymore, but it hasn’t vanished – and the usual winter bugs  still eagerly try to join the festivities. With a few smart habits, you can protect yourself, look out for the people you love, and enjoy the season without spending half of it in bed.