With the arrival of winter, flu and colds become more prevalent, and there are essential precautions and recommendations to protect your health. This week, the Directorate-General of Health (DGS) shared some ‘tips’ on social media that Portuguese citizens should follow. Stay informed.
“How to prevent flu and colds in winter?” The DGS emphasizes the importance of “sneezing or coughing into your arm (and not into your hand, which is a source of transmission).” It is also advised to “wash your hands frequently.”
In addition, it is recommended to “avoid closed and poorly ventilated environments” and to “drink water and hot beverages even if you’re not thirsty.”
Regarding nutrition, there are steps to take as well. The Directorate-General of Health advises to “increase the intake of foods rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants (such as fruits and vegetables)” as they “help reduce the risk of infections.”
️️With the arrival of winter, flu and colds become more prevalent, and there are essential precautions and recommendations to protect your health.
Be alert to 𝘀𝗶𝗻𝘁𝗼𝗺𝗮𝘀 𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗽𝗶𝗿𝗮𝘁ó𝗿𝗶𝗼𝘀 such as fever or cough, and contact 𝗦𝗡𝗦 𝟮𝟰: 𝟴𝟬𝟴 𝟮𝟰 𝟮𝟰 𝟮𝟰.#DGS pic.twitter.com/HvVlCViUq3— DGS (@DGSaude) December 10, 2025
It is noteworthy that Portugal has recorded an increase in severe respiratory infections, particularly among those over 65, and an excess mortality in the North region among people aged 75 to 84, according to data from the Ricardo Jorge National Health Institute (INSA).
The INSA’s influenza and other respiratory viruses epidemiological surveillance report indicates that during the week of December 1 to 7, there was an epidemic flu activity with a growing trend.
The Portuguese Laboratory Network for the Diagnosis of Influenza and Other Respiratory Viruses detected 1,164 positive flu cases last week, 1,163 of which were type A and 1 was type B.
Portugal has recorded an increase in severe respiratory infections, particularly among those over 65, and an excess mortality in the North region among people aged 75 to 84, according to data from the Ricardo Jorge National Health Institute (INSA).
Lusa | 11:57 – 12/12/2025
