As the festive period approaches, health experts are urging individuals and organisations to remain vigilant about the heightened risks of respiratory viruses during this time. Dr. Kate O’Reilly, regional medical director at International SOS, has highlighted the need for proactive health measures to mitigate the increased threat of illnesses such as colds, flu, Covid-19, and RSV.
“As employees embark on their holiday travels, organisations must recognise that the festive period typically coincides with heightened risks of respiratory viruses, particularly in the northern hemisphere. Proactively supporting the workforce with pre-travel health briefings and resources can help employees stay healthy and prepared,” Dr O’Reilly explained.
The colder weather, combined with indoor gatherings and increased travel, creates an ideal environment for respiratory viruses to spread. Flu cases traditionally peak during the winter months, and the lingering presence of Covid-19 and RSV further compounds the risk.
Dr O’Reilly emphasised the importance of maintaining healthy habits to bolster immune systems during this time. “Providing resources for managing travel stress and encouraging practices such as eating healthily, staying hydrated, regular exercise, and adequate sleep can minimise the risk of illness,” Dr O’Reilly said.
Vaccination also remains a cornerstone of prevention. “It is crucial to remind travelling employees to ensure their vaccines are up to date and they are aware of any medical alerts for their destinations,” Dr O’Reilly added.
To help individuals safeguard their health during the festive season, International SOS advises vaccinations to ensure protection from flu, Covid-19, and other infections.
It has been recommended that regular handwashing, mask-wearing in crowded spaces, and avoiding close contact with those who are unwell can reduce exposure. A well-rested body is more resilient to illness.
One should carry necessary medications and be aware of healthcare facilities at your destination.
Dr O’Reilly also highlighted the role of organisations in protecting their workforce. By providing pre-travel health resources and fostering a culture of wellness, employers can help reduce the incidence of illness among employees.
Michael Rogers, chief security analyst at International SOS, further added, “With the upsurge in travel, the festive season also brings increased safety risks, including crowd surges in busy areas and natural hazards such as winter storms in certain regions. Meanwhile, the recent arrest of a man suspected of planning a terror attack on a Christmas market in Bavaria, Germany, illustrates both the underlying persistent threat of such incidents and that authorities are generally well-placed to thwart plots. Travellers must stay well-informed and prepared to handle sudden and potentially significant disruptions due to geopolitical or socio-economic forces, natural hazards, and other threats. Organisations should ensure that their employees are aware of the security risks associated with their travel destinations. Providing access to real-time security updates and having a robust emergency response plan can significantly mitigate potential risks.”
According to the UN World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), the number of international travellers reached approximately 790 million in the first seven months of 2024, an 11% increase compared to the same period in 2023. This rise in travel is expected to continue during the year-end holiday period.
The International SOS Risk Outlook 2025 report highlights political and social unrest, geopolitical tensions, and transport risks and disruptions as top perceived risks by organisations, further emphasising the need for robust travel risk management strategies, particularly during periods of increased travel activity.
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