21 December 2023 , 10:47
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A brutal illness is sweeping across the UK, leaving people feeling wiped out after their work Christmas parties.
With a mix of cold and flu viruses, Covid variants and other bugs circulating, many Brits are finding themselves bedridden, suffering from more than just a hangover. One person took to social media to share their experience: "I went out last Friday for a work Christmas party and have been sick ever since."
Another added: "So office Christmas party has been cancelled because half of the staff are down with the flu and here I am part of the half in the office working." Another user warned others about the risks of attending festive gatherings: "Please pay attention especially during the holidays when people will be having parties, gathering in groups, travelling, shopping, etc. That work party the week before Christmas WILL get you and your whole family sick. Been seeing everyone get the flu and Covid the past few weeks."
But what exactly is causing this widespread illness? According to Dr Babak Ashrafi, a GP for online doctor service ZAVA, there could be several causes for your post-Christmas-party blues.
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Dr Ashrafi told LADbible: "What many might think is just one winter cold that is causing havoc among a large proportion of the population is actually a range of different viruses and other respiratory infections which are hitting us at about the same time." He also said that after months without much contact with others, our bodies might not be ready for these bugs.
"So catching a cold or flu this winter may leave you feeling a little worse than you would have before 2020, but bear in mind that without testing, it's hard to know what you're infected with," he added. Dr Ashrafi also mentioned that cold air can make our noses less good at stopping viruses.
Even though no one likes being ill, especially before Christmas, some people might not want to miss out on fun holiday events. Dr Ashrafi suggests washing your hands a lot, letting fresh air into rooms, and throwing away used tissues to stay healthy.
If you're already sick, the best way to stop giving it to others is to stay home until you feel better or wear a mask if you have to go out.
* An AI tool was used to add an extra layer to the editing process for this story. You can report any errors to [email protected]