Christmas markets have opened across many cities, and shopping districts are again drawing dense crowds.
The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) points out that tightly packed outdoor markets do little to curb transmission.
People with symptoms such as fever, coughing, or a runny nose are urged to mask, wash hands frequently, and ventilate indoor spaces.
Indoor safety concerns
Health authorities also warn of home hazards. As heating demand rises where it's cold, ageing installations become more vulnerable.
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France’s environmental health regulator, ANSES, has highlighted the danger of carbon monoxide from poorly adjusted fireplaces or stoves, noting that early signs often include dizziness or nausea.
The agency recommends annual chimney inspections and cautious use of portable heaters.
Medication and holiday food
Seasonal meals and alcohol can complicate medical treatments in subtle but significant ways.
The UK’s Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) notes that alcohol may intensify side effects of common medications, increasing the risk of sudden light-headedness, particularly hazardous for drivers and users of electric vehicles.
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Certain foods also interact with prescription drugs.
The MHRA advises that people on warfarin avoid cranberries, while those taking MAO inhibitors should be cautious with tyramine-rich products such as aged cheeses, which feature prominently on holiday menus.
Sources: Euro News, MHRA, ANSES, and ECDC.
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