The holiday season can be magical and the most wonderful time of the year for many. Breaks from routine, catching up on sleep and reading, and opportunities for travel can benefit mental health. At the same time, there is more traffic on the roads, stores are filled with shoppers whose patience may be short, people may overindulge, family drama may arise, and tempers flare. By being mindful of the need to stay healthy and taking steps to maintain your health, you can minimize the stress of the season. The ADPH Guide to Healthy Holidays offers numerous helpful resources on holiday food safety, safe toys and gifts, travel precautions, fire and heating safety, and other health tips, including coping with loneliness and stress.
I would like to stress the importance of getting vaccinated against respiratory illnesses.
We are entering what is historically the peak season for respiratory viruses. As more people gather indoors during winter, the rates of respiratory viruses such as influenza, RSV (respiratory syncytial virus), and COVID-19 tend to increase. Anyone can get sick, but older adults, young children, and those with health conditions are more likely to become very sick. Prevention is especially important if you, members of your family, or others with whom you come into contact are at higher risk. Everyone 6 months of age and older is advised to get an updated influenza vaccine each season. December is not too late, even though protection is not immediate after getting a vaccination. Protection against RSV is also recommended for babies and older adults. Respiratory illnesses can spread rapidly, so wash your hands frequently and avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands. Please stay home when you are sick and consult your healthcare provider to determine which vaccinations you need.
Although above-average temperatures are forecasted for this month in Alabama, prolonged exposure to cold temperatures can lead to deaths during periods of below-freezing conditions. Being in cold temperatures can put you at risk for frostbite and hypothermia. Hypothermia makes people unable to think clearly or move well. Factors that place people at risk include homelessness, older age, being male, and having chronic medical conditions such as heart disease, dementia, or mental illness. Keep well-informed about weather conditions and keep warm by dressing in multiple layers, limiting time outdoors in cold weather, and avoiding substance abuse and alcohol consumption, which can lead to dehydration and impaired judgment. Be sure to check on neighbors, friends, and others to ensure they have adequate food, clothing, and heating.
During this season of giving, be cautious when purchasing toys and only buy from reputable sellers. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) found that there were 10 deaths and an estimated 154,700 injuries in 2023 associated with toys for young children. This August, the CPSC issued an urgent warning to consumers about fake Labubu plush dolls that pose a serious risk of choking and death to young children. Look-alike dolls have been sold as plush figures and plush keychains. Information about them is available at the CPSC.
The CPSC provides the following toy safety tips:
Self-care is also important during this busy season. Be sure to eat a nourishing, balanced diet to support your immune system, stay active with regular physical activity, keep hydrated, and get enough sleep and relaxation time to help fight illness. Finally, giving to others in meaningful ways helps brighten the lives of both you and those you help.
Best wishes for a safe, healthy, and joyous holiday season.
Scott Harris, M.D., M.P.H.
State Health Officer