Under the weather: How and why we get sick in the winter

As temperatures drop and winter settles in, we all look forward to our favorite traditions —family gatherings, holiday parties and getting cozy indoors while it’s cold outside. Unfortunately, winter also brings a less welcome tradition: coming down with seasonal illnesses. Below we'll explore why winter tends to make us feel under the weather and what to do when it happens.

Do we really get sick more in winter?

Yes, studies show that certain illnesses are more prevalent in colder months. Viruses like influenza, RSV (respiratory syncytial virus), and norovirus are more active, making respiratory and gastrointestinal illnesses common. While winter doesn’t directly cause sickness, the season’s conditions make it easier for viruses to thrive and spread.

Why do people get sick in winter?

It’s no coincidence that sickness spikes in winter. The colder months create the perfect conditions for illness to spread. We may be more likely to find ourselves in some of these situations during the winter months:

• Crowded indoor activities: When temperatures drop, many people tend to spend more time indoors. And once the holiday season begins, we often find ourselves in places like shops, malls and restaurants for all sorts of gatherings. Also, keep in mind that even amongst all the festivities, we still have work, school and home responsibilities. Close contact indoors with others makes it easier for germs to spread.
• Dry air and colder temperatures: A study finds that cold temperatures can impact our immune systems. Furthermore, indoor heating systems can add to the problem. Dry air irritates your nasal passages, making it harder for your body to trap and filter out viruses.
• Weakened immune systems: Less sunlight in winter can lead to lower Vitamin D levels, which play a role in immune health. Also, we consistently see new variants of viruses like flu, COVID-19, and RSV. Combine that with holiday stress and less physical activity, and your defenses can take a hit.

How to avoid getting sick in winter

While you can’t control the season, there’s plenty you can do to lower your risk of getting sick:

• Practice good hygiene: Avoid touching your face, and cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your elbow when coughing or sneezing. The most effective way to prevent the spread of germs continues to be washing our hands. If soap and water are not available, look for hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
• Get vaccinated: A flu shot is your best defense against influenza. If you’re eligible, stay up to date on COVID-19 boosters as well.
• Stay hydrated: Even though you might not feel as thirsty in colder months, your body still needs plenty of water to keep your immune system strong. Also, adding moisture to indoor air can help keep your nasal passages from drying out, making it harder for viruses to enter your system.
• Stay active and eat well: Regular exercise, even indoors, boosts your immune system. Eating a balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables provides the nutrients your body needs to fight off illness.

When to seek care for winter illnesses

If you’re experiencing severe symptoms or if they last more than a few days, it may be time to see a healthcare provider. Here’s a closer look at some ailments that may occur in the winter, along with their key symptoms:

• Strep Throat: Strep throat is caused by a bacterial infection and spreads easily in close-contact settings. Symptoms include sore throat, pain when swallowing, fever, red or swollen tonsils (sometimes with white patches) and swollen lymph nodes.
• Norovirus: Often called the “winter vomiting bug,” is highly contagious and spreads through contaminated food, surfaces, or close contact. Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, low-grade fever and body aches.
• Ear Infections: These infections are often linked to colds and flu, which can lead to fluid buildup in the middle ear. Symptoms include ear pain, trouble hearing, fluid drainage, balance issues and irritability (especially in children).
• Flu and RSV: The flu and RSV are respiratory illnesses that can lead to complications, especially in young children and older adults. Symptoms include cough, fever, sore throat, body aches, fatigue and difficulty breathing in severe cases.

Don't wait if you notice these symptoms–get treated as soon as possible so that you can get back into your routine and responsibilities.

Stay healthy this winter

If you need convenient care after hours or on the weekend, consider visiting your local CareNow® urgent care clinic. With more than 225 locations throughout the country, our medical providers are ready to see you when you need it most.

CareNow® offers comprehensive and accessible healthcare through our extensive clinic network, convenient Web Check-In® service, and, making us a dependable option for your medical needs. Visit the CareNow locations webpage to find a clinic near you.