ITV’s Dr Hilary Jones has offered a straightforward tip to combat the surge in norovirus cases, which have recently seen a worrying 30 percent increase, doubling the usual rate for this time of year.
The ‘winter vomiting bug’ can be debilitating, causing severe symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhoea, nausea, fevers, headaches, and body aches.
Amidst an unprecedented rise in flu, RSV, and Covid cases, the British Medical Association is concerned that this winter could pose one of the toughest challenges the NHS has ever faced, Surrey Live reports.
In light of these concerns, Dr Hilary emphasises the need to take care of your immune system. He warns: “Winter is a difficult time for many of us as the days get shorter and the weather becomes bleak, but it can make people more susceptible to serious illnesses.
“This year, as flu, RSV and Covid cases rise earlier, the British Medical Association have warned this could be the worst winter on record for the NHS. It’s important now more than ever that we all do what we can.”
Dr Hilary suggests a simple and free method to keep illnesses at bay: ensuring adequate sleep. He advises: “Making sure to get at least seven to eight hours of quality sleep each night is essential for maintaining overall health, especially during winter.
“Lack of sleep can weaken your immune response and make you more susceptible to illnesses.” He explains that optimising your sleep routine crucial, especially during the colder months.
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“Establishing a consistent sleep schedule and creating a relaxing bedtime routine can enhance sleep quality – giving your body a better chance to withstand winter’s challenges.”
Delving into further advice, he suggested “cutting back on the booze” citing: “It’s no secret that excessive alcohol can weaken the immune system and increase the risk of falls and accidents, which become more concerning as we get older. Drinking in moderation can help maintain balance and coordination, reducing the likelihood of mishaps.”
His guidance didn’t stop there; he noted the importance of being mindful of alcohol consumption for overall health and enjoying social situations safely. He said: “Additionally, staying mindful of alcohol consumption can support overall health and well-being, permitting you to enjoy social gatherings without the risk of hurting yourself.”
In an effort to promote proactive health management, Dr Hilary is backing the sale of discounted Newfoundland health MOT test kits designed for use at home.
With an initial price tag of £66, these kits are now available for a mere £14.99, providing an affordable option for individuals to monitor their health and potentially minimize the need for hospital visits.
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