Beating the cold: Tips on staying healthy during the winter months

Living in a warm weather climate during the winter months has its perks—no snow shovels, no icy roads and plenty of sunshine. But when it comes to winter illnesses, even mild climates aren’t immune. From flu and RSV to norovirus and strep throat, seasonal illnesses still thrive in warmer climates.

Getting sick: A winter tradition

Studies have shown that certain illnesses tend to spread more easily during traditional winter months. We tend to associate this with cold weather, but most of the germs that cause common winter illnesses also thrive in warmer temperatures. Viruses like influenza, RSV (respiratory syncytial virus), and norovirus are more active, making respiratory and gastrointestinal illnesses common.

Why do we get sick in warm weather?

Even though winter illnesses are often associated with cold climates, the truth is that the temperature isn’t the main culprit. Whether it's warm or cold outside, it's important to try to protect ourselves and others against the germs that cause cold, flu and other common winter ailments. In warm weather regions, these factors still contribute to seasonal sickness:

• Close Contact: Winter still brings holiday gatherings, busy shopping malls, and social events, creating the perfect environment for viruses to spread.
• Dry air and cooler temperatures: One study finds that cooler temperatures have significant impacts on our immune systems. Indoor heating or air conditioning can dry out nasal passages, making it easier for viruses to take hold.
• Seasonal Patterns: Many illnesses, like flu and RSV, peak during winter regardless of outdoor temperature.

If you haven’t gotten your flu shot yet, you can still get one at one of our MD Now locations.

Common winter illnesses in warm-weather locations

While places with warm weather year-round avoid the extreme cold, residents still face the same common winter illnesses seen across the country. Here’s a quick look at the usual suspects and their symptoms:

• Flu (Influenza): Symptoms of the flu include fever, chills, cough, sore throat, muscle aches and fatigue. The flu remains highly contagious and peaks in winter, even in warmer climates.
• RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus): Symptoms include runny nose, rapid breathing, wheezing, cough, fever and difficulty breathing. RSV is especially concerning for young children and older adults. Florida has its own RSV season, often overlapping with winter.
• Norovirus: Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain and low-grade fever. Known as the “stomach flu,” norovirus spreads quickly through contaminated food, surfaces or direct contact.
• Strep Throat: Symptoms include sore throat, fever, difficulty swallowing and swollen tonsils. Strep spreads through respiratory droplets and is common in schools and workplaces.
• Ear Infections: Symptoms include ear pain, trouble hearing, fluid drainage, irritability (common in children). Often a complication of colds or flu, ear infections are prevalent in winter.

If you notice any of these symptoms listed above, MD Now offers services like flu and strep testing to help you get the care you need.

When to visit urgent care

Sometimes, winter illnesses can be managed at home with rest, hydration, and over-the-counter remedies. However, there are situations where professional care is necessary to prevent complications and ensure a speedy recovery. If you have any of the symptoms above, it’s best to get checked. If cold or respiratory symptoms worsen or last more than 10 days, it may signal an underlying infection that needs attention. Our physician-led team can offer you guidance and support with these symptoms. Overall, it's best to err on the side of caution.
 

MD Now: Your partner in winter wellness

MD Now Urgent Care centers provide fast, convenient access to care for these conditions, to help you recover quickly. Don’t wait—seek help if you’re experiencing any of these symptoms. Whether it’s a cold, the flu, RSV or any other winter illness, MD Now is here to help. With convenient locations across Florida, we offer flu shots, rapid testing and expert care to get you back on your feet quickly. If you or a family member experience symptoms of a winter illness, don’t wait—visit your nearest MD Now center today.