How to Stay Healthy During Holiday Gatherings: A Complete Guide
The holiday season brings reunions, celebrations, and shared meals but it also brings a higher risk of infections and seasonal illnesses. In December and January, hospitals across the Philippines, including the Chinese General Hospital and Medical Center (CGHMC), commonly see increases in flu cases, foodborne illnesses, stomach issues, respiratory infections, and even emergency incidents related to gatherings.
Staying healthy during holiday gatherings is not about avoiding the fun, it is about making informed decisions to protect yourself and your family. This guide explains why illnesses rise, what symptoms to watch for, and when it’s time to visit the Emergency Room.
Why Holiday Infections Increase
Several factors make December one of the highest-risk months for illness:
1. Close Contact in Indoor Settings
Holiday parties often involve tight spaces, air-conditioned rooms, and prolonged face-to-face interactions. These conditions allow viruses such as influenza, COVID-19, and the common cold to spread more easily.
2. Weather Changes
Cooler temperatures and fluctuating humidity weaken the body’s natural defenses. Sudden temperature changes from hot outdoor air to cold indoor air can trigger respiratory symptoms, especially in children and older adults.
3. Food Prepared in Large Batches
Big celebrations mean buffets and leftover food. Improper storage or reheating increases the risk of stomach infections.
4. Travel Exposure
Public transportation, airports, or long drives with many stopovers expose families to different environments, increasing viral transmission.
5. Fatigue and Stress
Holiday rush, lack of sleep, and overeating reduce immunity. Many people push their limits during the season, making them more vulnerable to infection.
Understanding these risks can help families make better decisions to stay healthy during holiday gatherings.
Common Illnesses During Holiday Gatherings
Holiday-related illnesses tend to fall under these categories:
1. Respiratory Infections
- Flu and colds
- COVID-19
- Acute bronchitis
- Tonsillitis or pharyngitis
Symptoms to watch for include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, and fatigue.
2. Stomach and Intestinal Infections
Contaminated or spoiled food can cause:
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Abdominal pain
- Food poisoning
Bacteria such as Salmonella, E. coli, and Staphylococcus aureus thrive when food is left at room temperature for extended periods.
3. Gastroesophageal Reflux and Heartburn
Rich, oily holiday meals can trigger acid reflux in adults and teens.
4. Viral Illnesses in Kids
Children exposed to large crowds may catch:
- Hand, foot, and mouth disease
- Viral gastroenteritis
- Rotavirus
- Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)
5. Infection Risks for Seniors
Older adults have weaker immune systems and are more prone to:
- Pneumonia
- Urinary tract infections
- Complications from flu or COVID-19
By recognizing these common illnesses, you can take steps to prevent them before they disrupt your holiday season.
Food Safety and Hand Hygiene: Your First Line of Defense
Holiday meals bring families together—but unsafe food handling can turn celebrations into ER visits. Here are essential guidelines to prevent foodborne illness:
Food Safety Tips
Keep hot foods hot and cold foods cold.
Perishable dishes should not stay out for more than two hours.
Separate raw meats from cooked dishes.
Cross-contamination is one of the most common causes of food poisoning during gatherings.
Be careful with leftovers.
Store them in airtight containers and refrigerate immediately.
Avoid undercooked dishes.
Particularly risky foods include:
- Raw eggs (tiramisu, homemade mayonnaise)
- Rare meats
- Seafood dishes left unrefrigerated
- Salads with mayonnaise or cream-based dressings
Check for spoilage
even if the dish still looks or smells normal.
Hand Hygiene Tips
Handwashing remains one of the most effective ways to stop infections.
Wash hands:
- Before eating
- After using the restroom
- After holding money
- After playing with pets
- Before preparing food
- After coughing or sneezing
When soap and water are unavailable, use alcohol-based sanitizer.
Protecting Kids and Seniors at Holiday Events
Children and older adults are the most vulnerable during holiday gatherings. Taking a few precautions can greatly reduce risks.
For Kids
- Avoid exposing babies to crowded areas.
- Bring their own utensils and water bottles.
- Watch out for small toys or party items that pose choking hazards.
- Limit sweets that may trigger stomach aches or vomiting.
- Ensure they get enough rest—holiday fatigue weakens immunity.
For Seniors
- Remind them to take maintenance medications before leaving home.
- Avoid exposing them to sudden temperature changes.
- Choose boiled, grilled, or steamed dishes.
- Provide seating in well-ventilated areas.
- Watch for signs of dehydration or dizziness.
For Pregnant Women
- Avoid raw seafood and unpasteurized dairy.
- Limit caffeine and sugary drinks.
- Stay away from smoke-filled rooms.
- Rest periodically.
These simple steps can make gatherings safer for your family’s most vulnerable members.
When to Visit the ER
Not all symptoms need emergency care but some do. Seek immediate attention at the CGHMC Emergency Room if any of the following occur:
Severe Respiratory Symptoms
- Difficulty breathing
- High fever that does not improve
- Chest pain or tightness
- Blue lips or fingernails
Serious Gastrointestinal Symptoms
- Persistent vomiting
- Bloody stools
- Severe abdominal pain
- Signs of dehydration (dry mouth, dizziness, low urine output)
Signs of Infection in Children
- Lethargy
- Rapid breathing
- Seizures
- Persistent high fever
Red Flags for Seniors
- Sudden confusion
- Chest discomfort
- Weakness on one side of the body
- Irregular heartbeat
Food Allergy Emergencies
- Swelling of lips or throat
- Hives with difficulty breathing
- Sudden drop in blood pressure
If unsure, it is always safer to consult early—especially during the holiday season when conditions can worsen quickly.
A Safe and Healthy Holiday Season at CGHMC
Chinese General Hospital and Medical Center is committed to keeping families safe during the busiest time of the year. Our Emergency Department, Internal Medicine specialists,
Pediatricians, and Infectious Disease experts are available to provide timely and compassionate care.
If you or a loved one develops concerning symptoms after a holiday gathering, do not delay care. Early evaluation helps prevent complications and ensures a smooth recovery.
