You are reading the Original Version (CLB5+) Read Simple Version (CLB3-4) Do you get sick when the season changes? You’re not alone. Incidences of colds, flu and allergies go up when we shift from one season to the next. But did you know that seasonal temperature changes do not cause these illnesses? Viruses cause them. Cooler temperatures in the fall and winter help different groups of viruses to flourish and hang in the air. That’s why we see more people getting sick during colder months. At this time, we have also have to watch out for the COVID-19 virus and its variants, aside from regular viruses. That’s why it’s so important to strengthen our immunity. Take these extra precautions to enjoy fall illness-free: We have the tendency to slow down when colder climate nears. But we should fight the urge to become sluggish. Staying active improves the immune response, and lessens the risk of illness. You can still jog or walk outside, just make sure to wear a jacket to stay warm. You can also gradually shift to indoor exercises like yoga or tai-chi. If you want more vigorous exercises, try Zumba, dancing, or aerobic workouts. Check out the fitness classes at the YMCA-YWCA if you want to workout with a group. Now is also a good time to dust off your treadmill or stationary bike so you can have a few laps indoors when it gets too cold to go outside. If you don’t have exercise equipment, check out easy workouts on YouTube that you can do at home, like this 20-minute total body workout for beginners (women): Eating seasonal fruits and vegetables will help keep your body strong and lift your mood up. Fruits like apples, pears, grapefruits, tangerines, pomegranates, and kiwi are great sources of Vitamin C. This vitamin will not only help strengthen your immunity but also provide protection from heart disease and certain cancers. Eat fruits raw, or mix in salads for a fresh and healthy dish. Farmer’s markets all over Manitoba have great vegetable selections like pumpkins, sweet potatoes, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts. They are inexpensive sources of fiber, iron, and various vitamins. Aside from eating healthy, getting vaccinated is a big boost for our immune system. Take regular flu shots for protection. Free flu, COVID-19 and pneumococcal (pneumonia) vaccines are offered at public health offices, medical clinics, access centers, pharmacies, vaccine clinics, and nursing stations. Check the Schedule for Provincial Flu Clinics/Region to know where to get your flu shot. For information on COVID vaccines go to: COVID vaccine finder. Fall is also a good time to check the expiration dates of any over-the-counter remedies in your medicine cupboard. Replace any expired items and restock things like pain relievers and decongestants so that they are on hand when you need them. Fall is the perfect time to visit your family doctor. Consult them about nutrition, getting the right vitamins, keeping your immunity up, and other health concerns you may have. Don’t forget to ask for blood pressure and cholesterol checks (the doctor will probably prescribe them anyway). Even young people need them. Continue using sunscreen and always moisturize. As temperatures drop, you will notice that the air gets drier. Use body lotion to keep your skin soft and correct some of the sun damage your skin may have experienced in summer. Reach for “broad spectrum” sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of at least 15. This will protect you from both UVA and UVB rays that can cause skin cancer. Don’t forget your lips! Petroleum jelly is a good solution for dry, cracked skin. Fall is an awesome season! Embrace the change and start enjoying the cooler climate. Explore the great outdoors and discover your new home. Admiring the changing colours around you will surely keep your mood up! Check the Fall Leisure Guide for activities you can join in your community centre. Please login to tell us what you think.Skip to:
Stay active
Load up on nutrients and get vaccinated
Get a physical check-up
Protect your skin
Welcome fall
Article updated September 6, 2024.
Sources: Why do people get sick when the seasons change? Laura Geggel, Livescience.com; 15 best superfoods for fall, Health.com; Seasonal Affective Disorder, Canadian Mental Health Association. All accessed July 31, 2017.Community Resources
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