Dr Hilary Jones shares surprising tip to avoid winter illnesses and injuries

Dr Hilary Jones has shared his top tips on how to avoid winter illnesses and injuries, and one of his recommendations involves ditching alcohol during the colder months

With the "vomiting bug" norovirus sweeping across the UK and health professionals warning of a "tripledemic" of Covid, RSV and flu cases on the rise, the odds are already stacked against us as we enter the season of ills. However, one telly doc is hoping to level the playing field with some unexpected advice that could drastically alter your winter health prospects.

Many of the most common winter illnesses don't necessarily hit the body incredibly hard, but their rapid spread is the main worry. Contracting multiple strains or different viruses simultaneously has the potential to leave you bed-bound or worse.

As a result, Dr Hilary Jones's top tip is to give your immune system the best possible chance to fight off these bugs by not hindering it before the battle begins. The ITV doctor explained: "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. Additionally, staying mindful of alcohol consumption can support overall health and well-being, allowing you to enjoy social gatherings without the risk of hurting yourself." Dr Hilary has offered some advice on how to stay warm during the coldest nights, even if it means only heating one room in the house or staying indoors during cold snaps.

He suggested: "Stocking up on hot drinks and soups in a thermos, while eating regularly, can create inner body heat and sustain energy levels. Avoid going out if it’s icy or snowy to prevent falls and fractures; however, if you must venture outside, wrap a warm scarf around your nose and mouth."

He also emphasised the importance of vaccinations, particularly RSV, flu and Covid vaccines at this time of year, and recommended self-testing if you have any concerns. He said: "It’s a habit many of us became familiar with during the pandemic and one we should keep up during the colder months."

The doctor also gave a cost-free tip about ensuring you get enough quality sleep, which can be difficult as the weather changes and daylight hours decrease. To help with this, Dr Hilary advised: "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. If you're experiencing sleep disturbances, consider testing for thyroid issues or vitamin deficiencies with Newfoundland’s at-home kits."