Healthier Holidays: Tips to Protect Your Health This Fall and Winter

‘Tis the season for keeping a close watch on your health – and the health of those around you. The holidays overlap with the height of respiratory virus season, when influenza, RSV and COVID-19 reach a higher level of community spread. Increased travel, indoor gatherings and colder weather create the perfect vehicle that allows these viruses to spread easily, reminding us that celebration and caution can coexist.

A Seasonal Snapshot

Respiratory activity remains relatively low nationwide, but early signs of winter trends are emerging. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports rising influenza activity in several regions, increasing RSV among young children in the South and steady circulation of COVID-19 across the country.

Current modeling suggests the combined effect of these viruses could approach last season’s hospitalization peak of about 19.3 admissions per 100,000 people.

Beyond influenza, RSV and COVID-19, Texas health officials are currently monitoring a sharp rise in pertussis cases. The Texas Department of State Health Services issued a statewide alert this fall after reports exceeded 3,500 cases through October – about four times higher than the same period in 2024.

In 2022, THA raised concerns about the potential for a “tridemic,” where flu, RSV and COVID-19 peak at the same time. While that scenario is not guaranteed this year, overlapping surges can strain hospital capacity and workforce resources – reinforcing why prevention and early awareness matter heading into the winter months.

Staying Well Physically

Seasonal health is built on consistency. Vaccines still remain the strongest defense against severe illness, and the CDC recommends staying current on flu, COVID-19 and RSV vaccinations for those eligible.

Additional strategies help reduce risk:

Practice good hand hygiene
Improve ventilation in indoor spaces
Follow safe food-handling practices when hosting
Stick to routines that support sleep, medication adherence and chronic-condition management

These straightforward habits create safer environments for gatherings and protect vulnerable individuals.

Supporting Mental and Emotional Health

The holidays can bring joy but also stress, financial strain or loneliness. The CDC’s How Right Now initiative encourages practical steps for emotional well-being – slowing the pace, setting realistic expectations, creating boundaries and strengthening meaningful connections.

Health systems continue expanding support through virtual mental health visits, employee assistance programs (EAPs) and partnerships with community behavioral health providers. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), reinforces that reaching out for help is an act of strength, not a sign of weakness.

Hospital Teams Keeping Care Moving

While many step away from work during the holidays, hospital teams operate at full capacity. Clinicians, respiratory therapists, environmental services staff, laboratory professionals and administrators sustain essential operations during some of the season’s busiest weeks.

Hospitals across the country are supporting staff with wellness initiatives, shared meals, team-building opportunities and mental health resources that honor their commitment to patients and communities.

Community Safety and Smart Care Decisions

Holiday well-being also depends on safe travel and thoughtful care navigation. A few key practices go a long way:

Travel mindfully and avoid driver fatigue
Celebrate responsibly and practice moderation
Select the right care setting: telehealth or urgent care for minor issues, emergency services for serious or life-threatening symptoms

A Season of Gratitude

The holidays highlight the people and values that anchor our communities. As families celebrate, health care professionals and public health teams continue their essential work behind the scenes.

Health is strengthened through both individual effort and shared care – together, we can help our communities move through the season safely.