Winter infections

Winter bugs can cause havoc to the healthiest of us. Anyone with existing chronic conditions should take extra care because even a simple cold can suppress the immune system and, as we have seen with COVID-19, other dormant infections can be re-activated, potentially causing long-term problems.

Practical winter infection tips

As winter weather kicks in, we’re at higher risk of catching colds and flu, particularly in crowded areas where respiratory viruses spread more easily.

The NHS and UKHSA state that influenza vaccination remains the best protection against influenza. All eligible groups should be encouraged to get vaccinated with the 2025 to 2026 seasonal influenza vaccine as soon as possible.

Here are some everyday actions that can help reduce the spread of flu and other respiratory viruses:

1. Wash your hands frequently with soap and water.
2. Cover your coughs and sneezes.
3. Stay home if you’re feeling unwell.
4. Consider wearing a mask in crowded indoor spaces during peak flu activity, particularly if you have a cough.

Lifestyle measures that support immune health:

1. Adequate sleep (7-9 hours)
2. Balanced nutrition (fruits, vegetables, whole grains)
3. Regular physical activity
4. Stress management

How to fight winter infections

Our Environmental Naturopath, Jean Monro, also recommends supporting immune health with nutritional supplements, such as vitamins A, C and D. Maintaining adequate nutrition is important for general health throughout the winter months.

To combat these upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs), Jean recommends a programme which consists of:

• Vitamin A: Boosts immune function, counters viral effects. Enhances cell production and lymphocyte proliferation.
• Vitamin C: Essential for countering bacterial and viral diseases. Prevents and reduces
  respiratory infections. Stimulates interferon production.
• Vitamin E: Potent antioxidant, modulates immune functions. Vital for T-cell differentiation.
• Vitamin B12: Immunomodulatory effects, facilitates antibody production. Reduces cytokines, increases lymphocytes.
• Folate: Essential for white blood cell production, aids allergy prevention.
• Vitamin D: Supports immune response. Deficiency linked to respiratory infections. Maintaining 25(OH)D serum concentration reduces viral infections.
• Flavonoids (quercetin, hesperetin, catechin): Found in apples, berries, citrus fruits and dark chocolate. Boosts various immune-related cells, exhibits anti-infective and anti-replicative activity. Good sources for flavonoids are apples, citrus fruits, and dark chocolate.

Take these supplements as packaging suggests or as directed by your healthcare professional.

For information on this 7-day regime, please contact us to request more information.

Further help

Book an appointment to discuss a personalised immune support plan, which will address contraindications of medications, potential interactions, and your specific needs.

However, if you develop flu symptoms and are in an at-risk group or have underlying health conditions, see your GP promptly, as early antiviral treatment can reduce complications.

Providing top quality supplements

Our online shop provides all the high quality supplements to help fight winter infections. Check out our recommended supplements to help fight winter infections.