12 sick days of christmas: common illnesses & health issues during the holidays

The holiday season in Australia is a time of sunshine, family gatherings, festive meals, and much-needed relaxation. But for many people, it also comes with a surprising downside — an increased risk of illness and injury. The combination of hot weather, travel, rich food, alcohol, and being in close contact with others makes December and January a peak period for many common health problems.

Whether it’s a sunburn after a beach day, a bout of gastro from dodgy seafood, or an unexpected trip to emergency after a fall — staying healthy during the holidays requires some planning and awareness. Below are 12 of the most common health issues and illnesses Australians face during the festive season — and what you can do to avoid them.

1. Heatstroke and sunburn

In Australia, Christmas means summer — and that often means long days under the sun. Heatstroke and sunburn are two of the most common holiday health issues, particularly for beachgoers, outdoor workers, children, and the elderly.

Heatstroke symptoms may include:

• Rapid heartbeat

• High body temperature

• Nausea and vomiting

• Confusion or dizziness

• Dry, hot skin with no sweat

Tips to avoid heat-related illness:

• Stay hydrated — drink water regularly throughout the day

• Avoid outdoor activities during peak sun hours (11am–3pm)

• Wear loose, light-coloured clothing and a wide-brim hat

• Apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen every two hours

• Never leave children or pets in parked cars

Being sun-smart and heat-aware can help you stay safe during your summer festivities — but it’s not the only risk to watch out for this season.

2. Falls, fractures, and festive accidents

From climbing ladders to hang lights to slipping on wet floors while prepping meals — injuries spike over the holiday season. Older adults are especially vulnerable to hip fractures, while younger people may suffer sprains, broken bones, or sports-related injuries.

Common causes of holiday injuries:

• Falling off ladders or furniture

• Tripping on decorations or cords

• Slippery kitchen and bathroom floors

• Running around barefoot outdoors

• Alcohol-related falls or accidents

Prevention tips:

• Use proper equipment for decorating (not chairs or makeshift stools)

• Clear walkways of clutter, cords, or loose rugs

• Wear proper footwear indoors and out

• Supervise children during play

• Avoid alcohol before engaging in risky activities

While slips and stumbles are common, festive food mishaps can also quickly lead to unwanted holiday illness.

3. Gastroenteritis (food poisoning)

Food poisoning is one of the most unpleasant ways to spend your holidays. Gastroenteritis, often caused by contaminated food or water, leads to symptoms like vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal cramps, and nausea — and spreads fast among groups.

What causes it?

• Undercooked meats or seafood

• Poor food storage (especially in hot weather)

• Unwashed fruits and vegetables

• Unclean hands or surfaces during food prep

How to prevent foodborne illness:

• Always wash hands before and after handling food

• Keep raw and cooked foods separate

• Refrigerate leftovers promptly (within 1–2 hours)

• Avoid seafood that hasn’t been kept chilled

• Wash all produce thoroughly before serving

Good hygiene and safe food practices can make all the difference — but some illnesses, like sinus infections, can sneak up even when you’re being careful.

4. Sinus infections

Sinus infections, or sinusitis, occur when the cavities around the nasal passages become inflamed, often due to bacteria or viruses. The holiday season can increase susceptibility due to travel, exposure to different environments, and close contact with others.​

Symptoms include:

• Headache​

• Facial pain or pressure

• Nasal congestion​

• Reduced sense of smell​

• Fever​

Prevention tips:

• Maintain good hand hygiene to reduce the spread of germs.​

• Use saline nasal sprays to keep nasal passages moist.​

• Avoid close contact with individuals who have colds or respiratory infections.​

• Stay hydrated to help keep mucous membranes moist.​

While sinus infections can dampen your holiday spirit, being mindful of heart health is equally crucial during this festive period.

5. Heart attacks

The combination of rich foods, increased alcohol consumption, stress, and sometimes neglect of regular medications can elevate the risk of heart attacks during the holidays. Individuals with existing heart conditions should be particularly cautious.​

Risk factors:

• Overindulgence in high-fat meals​

• Excessive alcohol intake​

• Emotional stress​

• Physical overexertion​

Prevention tips:

• Moderate your intake of rich, fatty foods.​

• Limit alcohol consumption.

• Engage in regular physical activity, such as walking.​

• Ensure you continue taking prescribed medications.​

• Practice stress-reducing techniques like deep breathing or meditation.​

Protecting your heart is vital, but respiratory health also demands attention during the festive season.

6. Bronchitis

Bronchitis is the inflammation of the bronchial tubes, leading to coughing and difficulty breathing. The colder indoor environments due to air conditioning and increased exposure to respiratory infections during gatherings can contribute to its prevalence during holidays.​

Symptoms include:

• Persistent cough​

• Production of mucus​

• Fatigue​

• Shortness of breath​

• Chest discomfort​

Prevention tips:

• Avoid smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke.​

• Wash hands frequently to prevent the spread of viruses.​

• Wear masks in crowded or enclosed spaces.​

• Use air purifiers to reduce indoor pollutants.​

While respiratory issues are concerning, skin conditions like eczema can also flare up during this period.

7. Eczema flare-ups

Eczema, or atopic dermatitis, is a condition that makes the skin red, itchy, and inflamed. Changes in routine, stress, and exposure to different environments during the holidays can trigger flare-ups.​

Common triggers:

• Stress​

• Dry air from air conditioning​

• Exposure to allergens like pet dander in unfamiliar homes​

• Use of fragranced products or new skincare items​

Management tips:

• Maintain a regular skincare routine using hypoallergenic products.​

• Moisturize skin regularly to prevent dryness.​

• Wear breathable, soft fabrics to reduce irritation.​

• Manage stress through relaxation techniques.​

Skin health is essential, and eye health should not be overlooked during festive activities.

8. Eye infections

Increased social interactions, exposure to different environments, and the use of makeup or contact lenses during holiday events can elevate the risk of eye infections like conjunctivitis.​

Symptoms include:

• Redness in the white of the eye or inner eyelid​

• Increased tear production​

• Thick yellow discharge that crusts over the eyelashes​

• Itchy or burning eyes​

Prevention tips:

• Avoid touching or rubbing your eyes.​

• Wash hands thoroughly before handling contact lenses or applying makeup.​

• Do not share eye makeup or personal eye care items.​

• Replace eye makeup regularly to prevent bacterial buildup.​

Beyond eye health, dental care remains a priority amidst holiday indulgences.

9. Dental problems

The holiday season often involves increased consumption of sugary foods and drinks, which can lead to dental issues such as cavities and gum disease.​

Common dental issues:

• Tooth decay​

• Gum inflammation​

• Tooth sensitivity​

Prevention tips:

• Brush teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.​

• Floss daily to remove plaque between teeth.​

• Limit intake of sugary snacks and beverages.​

• Visit your dentist for a check-up before the holiday season.​

Oral health is crucial, but throat infections can also put a damper on holiday cheer.

10. Sore throat

A sore throat is one of the most common ailments people experience over the holidays. Whether it’s from long travel hours in dry aeroplane cabins, late-night gatherings with loud conversations, or simply catching a cold from someone in close quarters — your throat can easily take a hit.

Common causes:

• Viral infections (like colds and flu)

• Dry air or air conditioning

• Increased alcohol or tobacco use

• Fatigue and lack of rest

• Strained vocal cords from talking or singing

Prevention and relief tips:

• Stay hydrated with water or herbal teas

• Use a humidifier if you’re in a dry environment

• Gargle with warm salt water

• Avoid smoking and limit alcohol

• Rest your voice when needed

A sore throat can be frustrating, but overindulgence in alcohol is another concern that often leads to bigger health risks during the festive season.

11. Alcohol intoxication

Alcohol consumption tends to spike during Christmas and New Year’s celebrations. While sharing a drink is often part of the fun, going overboard can lead to serious consequences — from hangovers and dehydration to accidents, injuries, and alcohol poisoning.

Signs of alcohol intoxication:

• Slurred speech and confusion

• Nausea, vomiting, or blackouts

• Slow or irregular breathing

• Loss of coordination and judgment

• Passing out or unconsciousness

How to drink responsibly:

• Stick to national guidelines: no more than 10 standard drinks per week and no more than 4 in one day

• Eat before and while drinking

• Alternate alcoholic drinks with water

• Know your limits and don’t drink to keep up with others

• Never mix alcohol with driving or risky activities

A night of celebration should never end in the emergency room — and the same caution applies when it comes to food safety and tummy troubles.

12. Gastrointestinal issues (e.g. diarrhoea, vomiting)

With so many rich foods, buffet spreads, and leftovers around, gastrointestinal problems are common during the festive season. From mild indigestion to full-blown food poisoning, your gut can suffer if you’re not careful with what (and how much) you eat.

Typical causes:

• Overeating or eating too quickly

• High-fat, sugary, or spicy foods

• Contaminated or improperly stored food

• Food intolerances (e.g. lactose or gluten)

Tips to keep your digestive system happy:

• Eat mindfully — slow down and stop when full

• Avoid skipping meals before a big feast

• Be cautious with seafood, meats, and salads left out too long

• Wash your hands before eating and after handling food

• Keep leftovers refrigerated and reheat them properly

A bit of mindfulness with food and alcohol can go a long way in making sure your holidays are memorable for the right reasons.

Final thoughts

The festive season should be a time to rest, celebrate, and make lasting memories — not recover from illness or injury. By being aware of the most common holiday health issues in Australia, you can take small but effective steps to protect yourself and those around you. Whether it's staying hydrated in the summer heat, handling food safely, or drinking responsibly, a little planning can go a long way.

Of course, no one expects you to skip the fun — but finding balance is key. Listen to your body, prioritise your wellbeing, and don’t hesitate to seek professional support if you’re feeling unwell. When you stay proactive, you’re more likely to enjoy a healthy, happy, and stress-free Christmas and New Year.