Figures release this week by the NHS warn the UK is heading into a “worst case scenario” December as cases of “superflu” accelerate at speed. Newly released figures show flu hospitalisations have jumped 55% in just one week, with an average of 2,660 patients in hospital per day - the highest level recorded for this time of year. Health leaders say numbers have continued to climb sharply since the reporting period, with no sign of a peak.

On top of the rapid rise in flu, hospitals are also seeing a 35% increase in norovirus patients, prompting warnings that winter viruses are beginning to engulf NHS services. The surge adds further pressure to hospitals already struggling with seasonal demand.

Alongside taking proactive measures to avoid flu, there are also preventative steps that people could consider this winter - including keeping a close eye on vitamin and nutrient intakes. Dr Dave Nichols, NHS GP and Resident Doctor for MyHealthChecked, said: “Good health is not just focusing on single vitamins, but instead ensuring you are taking in a range of nutrients from varied food sources to ensure that your immune system stays strong.

“Eating at least five portions of fruit and vegetables so that you are getting enough of key vitamins including vitamin A, C and D whilst ensuring you increase your intake of omega-3 is important. Foods rich in protein are also important in cell and muscle recovery so are good to eat to aid your recovery if you are feeling unwell.”

“More recent work suggests that probiotics may be helpful in preventing respiratory infections, whilst zinc supplementation has also been shown to be effective.”

MyHealthChecked says a testing kit available at Boots pinpoints whether there is a genetic risk of key nutrient deficiency, including vitamin D, vitamin C, iron and B12 – all of which can heighten the risk of illness over winter.

Dr Nichols said there are symptoms that could signal a vitamin deficiency over winter.

• “Vitamin D has an important role in the way our immune system works to fight off illnesses. This can increase the likelihood of you catching colds, prolong your recovery, or mean you bounce from one respiratory illness to another.


• “Low levels of iron, folate and B12 can lead to people feeling more tired or having less energy than usual, and in some cases anaemia which is where these symptoms may be more severe.


• “Other reported symptoms of vitamin deficiencies include hair loss or skin changes, including conditions like eczema which cause dry, scaly skin. Recent work also suggests a possible link to mood disorders such as depression or anxiety.”