Flu Season & Holiday Travel: How to Protect Yourself and Your Family

As the year-end holiday season approaches, many families are travelling, gathering, and celebrating. Unfortunately, this is also the time we see a rise in flu cases and viral infections in Singapore.

At Legacy Medical Practice, we believe prevention is just as important as treatment.

Here’s what you need to know to stay healthy during flu season especially if you’re travelling or spending time with loved ones.

Why Is Flu Season Worse During the Holidays?

Flu and other respiratory viruses spread more easily when:

• People gather in close indoor spaces

• Children return from school or childcare

• Families travel overseas

• Sleep routines and immunity are disrupted

  
  

In Singapore’s tropical climate, flu can circulate all year, but spikes are commonly seen during:

• School holidays

• Festive periods

• Monsoon seasons

Common Flu Symptoms to Watch Out For:

• Flu symptoms can come on suddenly and may include:

• Fever or chills

• Sore throat

• Runny or blocked nose

• Cough

• Headache

• Body aches and fatigue

⚠️ Children, elderly patients, pregnant women, and those with chronic medical conditions may experience more severe symptoms and should seek medical advice early.

7 Practical Tips to Stay Healthy This Flu Season:

1. Get Your Flu Vaccination

The flu vaccine is safe, effective, and recommended yearly especially if you:

• Have young children

• Are pregnant

• Have chronic conditions (asthma, diabetes, heart disease)

• Care for elderly family members

  
  

💉 Vaccination reduces the risk of severe illness and complications.

2. Wash Hands Frequently

• Use soap and water or alcohol-based hand sanitisers, especially after:

• Being in public places

• Touching shared surfaces

• Coughing or sneezing

  
  

3. Avoid Close Contact When Unwell

• If you’re sick:

• Stay home when possible

• Wear a mask if you need to go out

• Avoid close contact with children and elderly family members

  
  

4. Support Your Immune System

• A strong immune system starts with:

• Adequate sleep

• Balanced meals

• Hydration

• Managing stress

  
  

Your doctor can also advise if supplements are suitable for you.

5. Be Extra Cautious When Travelling

Before travelling:

• Ensure vaccinations are up to date

• Pack basic medications (fever, flu, stomach relief)

• Stay hydrated during flights

• Rest adequately

  
  

If you fall ill overseas or after returning, seek medical care early.

6. Don’t Ignore Persistent Symptoms

See a doctor if you have:

• Fever lasting more than 2–3 days

• Shortness of breath

• Chest pain

• Worsening cough

• Symptoms in young children or elderly patients

  
  

Early treatment can prevent complications.

7. Know When to Seek Medical Attention

Visit a clinic promptly if:

• Symptoms worsen instead of improve

• You feel unusually weak or breathless

• Your child is lethargic or feeding poorly

  
  

How Legacy Medical Practice Can Help

At Legacy Medical Practice, we provide:

• Flu assessment and treatment

• Flu vaccinations

• Family-friendly consultations

• Care for adults, children, and elderly patients

  
  

We are here to support you and your family through the flu season.

📍 Visit us or 📞 call ahead for same-day appointments