Attention to the Rise of Epidemic Diseases During Winter: Masks May Return to the Agenda

With the arrival of winter, there has been an increase in respiratory infections such as flu, the common cold, and COVID-19. According to experts, this increase is caused not only by cold weather but also by multiple contributing factors. Associate Professor Hatice Merve Bayram, Vice Dean of the Faculty of Health Sciences and Head of the Department of Nutrition and Dietetics at Istanbul Gelişim University, explained the reasons behind the rise in infections during the winter months and ways to prevent them.

Why Do We Get Sick More Often in Winter?

Cold and dry air dries out the mucous membranes in the nose and throat, making it easier for viruses to attach. Low humidity weakens the immune barriers, while spending more time in enclosed and poorly ventilated spaces accelerates droplet-based transmission. The decrease in sunlight also leads to lower vitamin D levels, which negatively affects the immune system. Additionally, viruses such as influenza and SARS-CoV-2 are known to survive longer in low-temperature and low-humidity conditions.
Assoc. Prof. Bayram stated, “Winter months create almost perfect storm conditions for infections. Both environmental factors and lifestyle habits that weaken the immune system make it easier for illnesses to spread during this period.”

Possibility of a New Wave

Assoc. Prof. Bayram pointed out that there has been a renewed increase in influenza and COVID-19 cases in recent weeks, emphasizing the possibility of a second peak wave during the 2025–2026 winter. She noted that the decrease in community immunity over time, the emergence of new variants, and differences in vaccine effectiveness increase this risk.

She also noted that the reopening of schools has led to more time spent in closed and crowded environments: “Classrooms and communal living areas, where children gather, provide a suitable environment for viruses to spread. It is possible to observe increases in cases from the very first weeks,”.

Masks May Return to the Agenda

Reminding that masks were abandoned in daily life after the pandemic, Assoc. Prof. Bayram stated that masks still remain a reasonable preventive measure in enclosed and crowded spaces during the winter:
“It may be too early to propose a general obligation for society, but for at-risk groups, mask use could come back into focus this winter. The mask continues to be a simple yet effective protective tool.”

Children and the Elderly Are More Vulnerable

Assoc. Prof. Bayram explained that children are at higher risk because their immune systems are not fully developed, while elderly individuals face naturally declining immune function. She emphasized the importance of the flu vaccine in particular. She also underlined that regular sleep, a balanced diet, vitamin D and C supplementation, and adherence to hygiene rules are vital.

Daily Habits That Strengthen the Immune System

Assoc. Prof. Bayram emphasized that there is no single miracle method to keep the immune system strong during the winter months, and that it can only be achieved through a combination of daily lifestyle habits. She stated that nutrition is one of the most important elements in this regard: “A Mediterranean-style diet rich in fruits and vegetables, and high in vitamins and minerals, forms the foundation of a strong immune system.”

She pointed out that adequate and quality sleep is essential for the immune system: “Sleeping 7–8 uninterrupted hours a night plays a critical role in the body's renewal.” She also stated that physical activity directly supports immunity, adding, “At least 30 minutes of brisk walking or moderate exercise each day makes the body more resistant to illnesses.”

“Mask Use Still Among the Simplest and Most Effective Measures”

Assoc. Prof. Bayram highlighted the importance of stress management and hygiene habits, saying: “Methods such as meditation, breathing exercises, or spending time in nature help balance stress hormones and protect the immune system. Regular hand washing, ventilating closed spaces, and wearing a mask when necessary are still among the simplest and most effective precautions.”
Finally, she emphasized the importance of adequate fluid intake: “Drinking at least 1.5–2 liters of water per day helps keep the mucous membranes moist, thereby strengthening the body’s defense system.”

Assoc. Prof. Bayram concluded that adopting all these habits together creates the strongest shield against the increase in respiratory infections during winter: “Healthy nutrition, regular sleep, and hygiene practices are the most reliable foundations of our immunity.”
Experts emphasize that protection from infections in winter is possible not only through individual precautions but also through social awareness. Maintaining a healthy diet, regular sleep, hygiene habits, and not neglecting vaccines play a critical role in protecting both individual and public health. Experts from Istanbul Gelisim University highlight that with simple yet consistent measures, a stronger immune shield can be built against the challenging conditions of the winter season.