Flu warning as one in two Scots admit to poor hygiene at Christmas

Published on Monday 21 December 2009 21:46

SCOTS risk increasing their chances of catching flu this festive season as good hygiene is forgotten during the celebrations, research suggests.

A survey found that almost half of Scots (47 per cent) admitted licking the spoon while cooking, and putting it back in the bowl.

Around a fifth (21 per cent) also said they would touch a canap at a party, before changing their mind and putting it back for someone else to eat.

Such behaviour is worrying at this time of year, when cases of seasonal flu traditionally begin to rise, and this year of swine flu has increased concerns.

Cases of the H1N1 virus have dropped in the last month, to about 8,000 a week.

But there are concerns the number of people who contract the virus could rise again – particularly as uptake of the vaccine in at-risk groups has been just 35 per cent so far.

The latest research, carried out by Boots, found that many people could be unaware of the risks of flu at Christmas time.

The UK-wide poll of around 1,200 people found 64 per cent said they would still be kissing under the mistletoe this festive season.

Four out of ten said they would be playing interactive games, such as charades, with their family over Christmas – meaning they could be touching their nose and mouth, potentially passing germs to others when they touch later.

The research also found that a third of people said they never set foot outside the house on Christmas Day.

While people may think this shields them from colds and flu, the flu virus is more likely to spread between people in close contact indoors.

On average, people will enjoy their Christmas dinner with eight others all sitting around the same table.

The research also found that a quarter of men admitted not washing their hands after going to the toilet – compared with just 4 per cent of women.

Boots pharmacist Angela Chalmers said: "I'm astounded at how many Brits forget such basic hygiene rules over the festive period.

"Indulging in festive food, going to parties and playing interactive games all keep people in the Christmas spirit, but it can be easy to forget how quickly viruses and bacteria spread between people who are in close contact with each other.

"Germs can also live and breed on surfaces for up to 24 hours, which is why frequent hand washing with warm water and an antibacterial soap or hand sanitiser is especially important when spending time with your family and friends."

"By following a few simple hygiene rules, you can help ensure you and your family spend a healthy Christmas together."

Public health minister Shona Robison said: "The vast majority of those who contract H1N1 will experience relatively mild symptoms and make a full recovery.

"But H1N1 is easily spread and attention to personal hygiene can limit the spread of the virus.

"It's encouraging to see that the latest figures have shown a decline in the estimated number of flu-like cases in Scotland.

"We continue to urge those in risk groups to ensure that they come forward to receive the vaccination jag."