As your concierge physician here in Naples, we want to ensure you enjoy this holiday season in vibrant health. Many of you split time between northern homes and our beautiful Florida coast, and I know the winter months bring both joyful gatherings and increased exposure to respiratory viruses. The good news? With the right strategies, you can fully embrace the festivities while protecting your health. Here’s some evidence-based guidance tailored to your lifestyle.
Vaccination: Your Foundation of Protection
The science is unequivocal: vaccines remain our most effective defense against severe illness from flu, COVID-19, and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV). Adults over 50 bear the greatest burden of flu-related complications, with 70-85% of flu deaths occurring in those 65 and older. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends high-dose or adjuvanted flu vaccines for seniors, as they generate stronger immune responses than standard doses.
This season also brings exciting new protection: the RSV vaccine for adults 60+, which has shown approximately 80% effectiveness at preventing hospitalizations. RSV isn’t just a children’s virus—it causes serious lung infections in seniors and, in some years, results in as many (or more) deaths in older adults as the flu. Combined with your updated COVID-19 booster, these vaccines create a powerful shield during your most socially active months. If you haven’t received your seasonal vaccines, it’s not too late, immunity takes about two weeks to build, so plan accordingly before any travel.
Smart Travel Strategies for Seasonal Residents
Whether you’re flying first-class to see grandchildren or embarking on a luxury cruise, thoughtful precautions enhance your safety without compromising comfort. Naples Concierge Health provides travel health packs that include rapid COVID tests, a digital thermometer, hand sanitizer, disinfectant wipes, and other essentials to keep you protected on the go.
Modern aircraft have excellent HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filtration, and using the overhead air vent to creates a protective air barrier around your seat. Upon boarding, wiping down your tray table, armrests, and seatbelt buckle reduces contact with cold and flu viruses that can survive on surfaces for hours.
During flights, stay well-hydrated (dry cabin air can compromise your nasal defenses) and move around periodically. If you have lounge access, use it—fewer people means fewer germs, and you’ll arrive more refreshed.
Strengthen Your Natural Immune Resilience
Beyond vaccines and avoiding exposure, your daily habits profoundly impact how well your body fights infection. Think of your immune system as requiring proper fuel, rest, and conditioning.
Quality Sleep: Prioritize 7-8 hours nightly. Scientific evidence shows that sleep deprivation negatively affects multiple immune system components. During deep sleep, your body produces critical immune proteins that fight infection.
Regular Exercise: Maintain moderate physical activity—morning beach walks, golf, swimming, or yoga. Research involving over 500,000 adults found that those meeting exercise guidelines were about half as likely to die from flu or pneumonia compared to inactive individuals. That’s remarkable protection from simply staying active.
Nutrient-Rich Nutrition: Emphasize colorful fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Your immune cells need vitamin C, zinc, vitamin D, and other nutrients to function optimally. Consider discussing vitamin D supplementation with Dr. Marsh or Dr. Lucombe, as many older adults—even in sunny Florida—have inadequate levels during winter months.
Stress Management: The holiday rush can elevate cortisol, which weakens immune response. Balance busy social calendars with quiet recovery days.
Simple Hygiene Habits That Work
The fundamentals remain powerful: wash your hands frequently (20 seconds with soap), use hand sanitizer after touching public surfaces, and cover coughs with your elbow. If you feel unwell, stay home and rest—your friends would rather reschedule than catch your cold.
With proper preparation and mindful choices, you can fully embrace this festive season while safeguarding your health. Naples Concierge Health is always here to support your wellness journey.
Your Partner in Comprehensive, Convenient Care
At Naples Concierge Health, the practice believe that convenience isn’t just a luxury in healthcare—it’s a vital part of helping our patients live life to the fullest. Whether you’re optimizing your health for an active lifestyle, managing complex conditions, or preparing for travel, Dr. Jonathan Marsh, Dr. Linda Lucombe, and the dedicated care team serve as your co-pilot on your health journey.
The concierge medicine approach means same-day appointments, unhurried consultations, and direct access to your physicians whenever you need guidance. With decades of medical expertise and strong relationships with top-tier specialists, the practice provides priority access to in-demand providers and seamless coordination with nationally-recognized medical centers including Cleveland Clinic and Mayo Clinic.
As an independent practice, Naples Concierge Health focuses solely on your health without external financial influences. From coordinating your seasonal vaccinations to creating customized wellness plans, the team ensures you spend less time worrying about your health and more time enjoying everything Naples has to offer.
Ready to prioritize your health this season? Contact Naples Concierge Health today at (239) 690-6286 or visit www.naplesconciergehealth.com to schedule your seasonal vaccinations or discuss your personalized wellness strategy. Don’t wait until you’re feeling unwell—proactive care keeps you thriving through the holidays and beyond.
