How to Stay Well This Winter

How to Stay Well This Winter

The team at Nillumbik Medical Centre is here to remind you of a few simple but important ways to stay healthy as this year’s cold and flu season sets in.

FACTS ON THIS PAGE

• How to Stay Well This Winter
• Stay Well This Winter with Simple Daily Habits
• Basic Hygiene is Your Best Defence
• Get Your Flu and COVID Vaccinations
• Wear a Face Mask in Crowded Spaces
• Keep Indoor Spaces Well-Ventilated
• Stay Home If You’re Unwell
• FAQs About Staying Well in Winter
• Stay Well with Support from Nillumbik Medical Centre

1. Stay Well This Winter with Simple Daily Habits

Good health begins with consistent, everyday actions. Eating a balanced diet, staying active and hydrated, rugging up against the cold, and getting enough sleep all support your immune system. But it’s also important to focus on basic hygiene and to avoid contact with others if you’re unwell.

2. Basic Hygiene is Your Best Defence

Practising good hygiene is one of the most effective ways to prevent illness. Remember to:

• Wash your hands regularly with soap and water for at least 30 seconds.
• Use a tissue or your elbow when coughing or sneezing.
• Avoid touching your face, especially your eyes, nose, and mouth.
• Teach kids proper handwashing and hygiene habits early.

3. Get Your Flu and COVID Vaccinations

Staying up to date with your flu vaccination and COVID-19 vaccine is an important way to reduce your risk of serious illness during winter. Vaccination protects you, your family, and the community. Nillumbik Medical Centre offers both vaccines—check with your doctor to see if you’re due for a COVID booster or influenza vaccine.

4. Wear a Face Mask in Crowded Spaces

Wearing a face mask in crowded or poorly ventilated areas, especially indoors, helps prevent the spread of viruses. It’s particularly important if you’re visiting high-risk settings like medical clinics, public transport, or aged care facilities.

5. Keep Indoor Spaces Well-Ventilated

Fresh air helps reduce the build-up of airborne viruses indoors. Open windows when possible, use fans and consider air purifiers to improve indoor air quality. This is especially helpful in shared spaces such as offices or schools.

6. Stay Home If You’re Unwell

If you’re feeling sick—whether it’s a mild cold, the flu, or possible COVID symptoms—stay home and rest. Avoid going to work, school, or public places. This helps stop illness from spreading and gives your body time to recover.

FAQs About Staying Well in Winter

What’s the best way to boost my immune system naturally?

Eating a balanced diet, getting regular sleep, staying active, and managing stress can all support a healthy immune system.

Yes, it’s safe to get both at the same appointment. Speak with your GP about booking your flu vaccination and COVID-19 vaccine together.

Should children wear masks in winter?

In crowded or high-risk areas, wearing a mask can help reduce virus spread in children and adults.

How do I know if I have COVID or the flu?

These illnesses share similar symptoms. It’s best to take a COVID test and consult your doctor to determine the cause of your illness.

Stay Well with Support from Nillumbik Medical Centre

Let us help you and your family stay healthy this winter. Contact Nillumbik Medical Centre for COVID boosters, flu shots, and general check-ups!