Cases of the dreaded ‘winter vomiting bug’ norovirus have escalated by 30% in the past fortnight – a rate that’s twice the norm for this period. The highly infectious bug, which can knock you off your feet with symptoms such as vomiting, nausea, diarrhoea, high temperatures, headaches, and achy limbs, has left many seeking ways to avoid it.
Dr Hilary Jones from Good Morning Britain has stepped in with expert advice on how to stave off the virus, emphasising the need for heightened vigilance this season, especially with rising cases of flu, RSV, and COVID-19. He said: “Winter is a difficult time for many of us as the days get shorter and the weather becomes bleak, but it can make people more susceptible to serious illnesses.
“This year, as flu, RSV and COVID cases rise earlier, the British Medical Association have warned this could be the worst winter on record for the NHS. It’s important now more than ever that we all do what we can.”
Cut back on the booze
“It’s no secret that excessive alcohol can weaken the immune system and increase the risk of falls and accidents, which become more concerning as we get older. Drinking in moderation can help maintain balance and coordination, reducing the likelihood of mishaps.
“Additionally, staying mindful of alcohol consumption can support overall health and well-being, permitting you to enjoy social gatherings without the risk of hurting yourself.”
Keep warm
“Heating just one room of the house can keep you warm and help save on fuel bills, but it’s important to keep that space above 18°C. During a bitter cold snap, staying warm indoors and dressing in multiple layers is essential.
“Stocking up on hot drinks and soups in a thermos, while eating regularly, can create inner body heat and sustain energy levels.
“Avoid going out if it’s icy or snowy to prevent falls and fractures; however, if you must venture outside, wrap a warm scarf around your nose and mouth.”
If in doubt, self-test
“It’s a habit many of us became familiar with during the pandemic and one we should keep up during the colder months. With GP appointments becoming increasingly hard to obtain in a hurry, getting into the habit of regular self-monitoring with DIY testing is a good idea.
“While testing for the likes of flu and COVID can help with faster diagnosis, testing for other non-winter related ailments such as your bowel health, kidney health and iron levels allows you to stay on top of your overall wellbeing.”
Make sure you’re up-to-date on your vaccinations
“As winter approaches, it’s essential to get your flu jab and ensure you’re up to date with your COVID boosters. These vaccinations are critical for preventing severe illness, especially with the current ‘triple-demic’ threat – an early rise in respiratory infections like RSV, flu, and COVID.
“The British Medical Association has warned that this could be the toughest winter for the NHS, so staying on top of your vaccinations not only protects your health but may also be life-saving.”
Get your sleep
“Making sure to get at least 7-8 hours of quality sleep each night is essential for maintaining overall health, especially during winter. Lack of sleep can weaken your immune response and make you more susceptible to illnesses.
“Establishing a consistent sleep schedule and creating a relaxing bedtime routine can enhance sleep quality – giving your body a better chance to withstand winter’s challenges. If you’re experiencing sleep disturbances, consider testing for thyroid issues or vitamin deficiencies with Newfoundland’s at-home kits.”
Dr Hilary is offering people across Great Britain free Newfoundland health MOT test kits to help people monitor their health at home. These kits are designed to catch potential issues early, reducing the need for hospital visits and in turn, saving lives.
Every Newfoundland health MOT kit will provide Brits with crucial information about their health, from identifying a weakened immune system to detecting bowel cancer and kidney disease. The kits are available for free, but there is a £6.99 charge for postage and packaging.