According to Marc Hamilton, president of the Association of Microbiologists of Quebec, gatherings should be avoided during Christmas celebrations as they promote the spread of respiratory viruses. “Hugs, handshakes, kisses… if we can limit it to the bare minimum, that's what we recommend,” he says.
However, the expert does not believe that these customs will disappear. “It's a recommendation, but when we tell people not to do it, we know it frustrates them. They still insist on doing it. People will say: I’ve had it, whatever, kiss me.”
Respiratory diseases are increasing
This year, particular caution is required as respiratory illnesses are widespread, warns Mr Hamilton.
According to Statistics Canada, one in eight people in Quebec is currently affected by one of the three major respiratory viruses, namely influenza, COVID-19 and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).
Flu season, which typically begins in January, is early. It started in October and is still very present, which inflates the numbers, explains Marc Hamilton.
Data from the American Centers for Disease Prevention and Control backs this up. There are currently 200% more flu, 60% more RSV and 51% more COVID-19 than usual amounts for the same data, says the microbiologist.
Feverish? Stay at home.
Marc Hamilton is clear. People with a fever should not attend Christmas parties, even if they do not have COVID-19.
“Yes, COVID is still present, but other viruses can cause more serious problems at the same time, especially in young children and the elderly. Don't go out if you have a fever. Spend Christmas alone. It’s boring, but it’s what you have to do.”
Anyone who has other symptoms such as cough or fatigue should wear a mask if they want to leave the house, he adds.
Your foods to watch out for
According to Mr. Hamilton, about 1,500 cases of food poisoning are recorded in Quebec every year. A large proportion of these poisonings occur during the holiday season.
For what? Food is left at room temperature for too long upon receipt.
“As soon as we have a temperature of 20 degrees or more, there is a proliferation of bacteria that begins to take hold. This proliferation of bacteria can also increase the number of pathogenic bacteria that could be present in food, such as salmonella,” explains the microbiologist.
Some practical advice
To limit the risk of food poisoning during the Christmas festivities, Marc Hamilton recommends:
- Never leave food on the counter for more than 2 hours. If you exceed this period, it is better to throw the food away.
- Use coolers to transport holiday meals. If your host's fridge is full, your food will stay at a comfortable temperature.
- Leave food outside the home. The cold of winter – as long as the mercury temperature is near or below zero – can be a valuable ally for your receptions. So that the dishes don't spend the evening on the kitchen table, they can be stored outside in the meantime.
- Do not defrost your turkey on the counter. It's best to plan a day in advance and thaw your meat in the fridge.
- Do not cook your stuffing in your turkey. This method promotes cross-contamination. It's best to cook the stuffing separately and add it to the turkey when the food is cooked.