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Published on December 29, 2025

5 Tips to Stay Healthy During the Holidays and Options for CareHoliday Injury and Illness Prevention 2025

The holiday season is in full swing, and while we’re all looking forward to festive gatherings and family time, no one wants to bring unwanted "guests" like germs or injuries to the party. Learn about preventative care, at-home treatment and where to seek help when you need it, with Cody Martin, PA-C with Cone Health Virtual Care in this 2 Your Well-Being conversation with WFMY.

1. Practice Prevention

The best way to enjoy the holidays is to avoid getting sick in the first place. Martin emphasizes that hand hygiene is your first line of defense.

  • The 20-Second Rule: Don’t just rinse and run. Lather up for at least 20 seconds.

  • The Technique: Don’t just wash your palms. Make sure to scrub the backs of your hands, between your fingers, and under your nails. Use your palm as a "scrub board" for your fingertips.

  • Hand Sanitizer: If soap and water aren't available, use a dime-sized amount of alcohol-based sanitizer and rub until dry.

  • Don't Touch Your Face: Your eyes, nose, and mouth are the main portals for infection.

  • Mask Up: If you’re doing last-minute shopping in heavy crowds, a mask can provide an extra layer of protection.

2. Avoid Risks

It’s not just germs we have to worry about; the holidays bring unique physical risks.

  • Watch Your Back: Between putting up heavy trees and lugging giant boxes of presents, back strains are common. "Don't try to be Superman or Superwoman," Martin warns. Ask for help with heavy lifting.

  • Toy Safety: New toys often come with small parts. Be mindful of age recommendations on packaging to avoid choking hazards for small children.

3. Stay Home

If you wake up with a scratchy throat or a stuffy head during the holidays, don't panic, but do take action.

  • Stay Home: If you’re under the weather, the best gift you can give your family is not spreading the illness.

  • Home Remedies: Use a saline nasal rinse or a Neti pot to clear congestion. Important: Always use distilled water in a Neti pot—never tap water.

  • Over-the-Counter Care: Tylenol or Ibuprofen can help with aches and fevers, but check with your doctor to ensure they are safe for your specific medical history.

4. Know Your Care Options

Your primary care doctor might be closed for the holidays, but you still have options:

  • Virtual Care: Cone Health Virtual Care is available 365 days a year (including holidays) from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM. This is a great option for mild illnesses or minor injuries like back strains.

  • Urgent Care: For more substantial symptoms that aren't life-threatening, visit a Cone Health Urgent Care.

  • Emergency Department: Cone Health Emergency Services are always available for severe or life-threatening issues.

5. Travel Safely

If you’re heading out of town or traveling back home, a little preparation goes a long way:

  • Pack Your Meds: Ensure you have enough prescription refills to last the whole trip.

  • Testing Supplies: If you have a condition like diabetes, double-check that you have your glucometer, strips, and lancets.

  • First Aid Kit: Keep a kit in your car with Band-Aids and pain relievers so you don't have to make extra stops.

When to Call 911: Seek emergency care immediately for chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, fainting, severe abdominal pain, or major injuries.

2 Your Well-Being

Cone Health and WFMY News 2 are excited to partner together to provide health and wellness information for you and your family. Watch Cone Health experts on television and online.

Tune in to WFMY News 2 every Monday to watch health segments on a variety of wellness topics.

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