Don’t Give Your Family the Flu for Christmas, Warns RACGP

 As families prepare to gather for Christmas celebrations, Australia’s Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) is urging people to take simple but crucial steps to avoid spreading the flu during the festive season. With influenza cases rising and holiday travel increasing, health experts warn that careless behaviour could turn joyful reunions into weeks of illness.

Christmas is traditionally a time for close contact—hugging relatives, sharing meals, and spending long hours indoors. Unfortunately, these same conditions create the perfect environment for viruses like influenza to spread quickly, especially among older adults, young children, pregnant women, and people with chronic health conditions.

The RACGP has emphasised that many people dismiss flu symptoms as “just a cold” and continue with social plans, unintentionally infecting others. However, influenza is not a mild illness. It can lead to serious complications such as pneumonia, hospitalisation, and in severe cases, death. Each year, thousands of people require medical care due to flu-related complications, placing additional strain on healthcare systems.

Vaccination remains the strongest line of defence. Although many associate flu shots with winter, health experts say it is never too late to get vaccinated, particularly before attending large family gatherings. The vaccine not only reduces the risk of infection but also lowers the severity of illness if someone does become sick. RACGP spokespersons have stressed that getting vaccinated is not just about personal protection—it is about protecting loved ones.

Staying home when unwell is another key message. Doctors urge people experiencing fever, cough, sore throat, or body aches to avoid gatherings, even if it means missing a long-anticipated celebration. While this can be disappointing, it is a responsible choice that helps prevent the spread of illness to vulnerable family members.

Simple hygiene measures also make a big difference. Regular handwashing, covering coughs and sneezes, and improving ventilation by opening windows can significantly reduce viral transmission. For those hosting events, providing hand sanitiser and encouraging guests to be mindful of symptoms can help create a safer environment.

The RACGP has also highlighted the importance of testing when symptoms appear, especially for people who may confuse flu symptoms with COVID-19 or other respiratory infections. Early diagnosis allows individuals to isolate promptly and seek appropriate medical advice if symptoms worsen. 

The RACGP’s message is about care and consideration. Christmas is a season of giving, but the flu is not something anyone wants to pass on. By taking preventative steps—vaccination, staying home when sick, and practising good hygiene—Australians can help ensure the festive season remains a time of joy rather than illness.

As celebrations approach, health experts encourage everyone to think beyond tradition and prioritise wellbeing. Protecting family health may be the most meaningful gift of all.