Winter in Northern West Virginia brings a special kind of beauty to our community, but it also comes with its own set of health challenges as temperatures drop and daylight fades. Our bodies need to work harder to stay healthy in the winter. That’s why the Clay-Battelle Health Services Association (CBHSA) is here to support you and your family, keeping our community well, warm, and thriving all season long.

Understanding these challenges is the first step to protecting yourself and your family.

Winter is prime time for colds, the flu, and other respiratory illnesses. Close indoor contact makes it easier for viruses to spread from person to person.

For adults living with certain chronic conditions, the flu can be more than just a seasonal illness. According to the CDC, most people hospitalized with flu in recent years had at least one underlying condition.
The best defense for everyone is prevention.

Protecting yourself and your family starts with good habits:

1. Keep vaccines up to date, including your yearly flu shot and COVID boosters.
2. Wash or sanitize your hands often, especially after being in public places.
3. Get plenty of sleep and fluids to support your immune system.

If you have a high fever that will not break, trouble breathing, or symptoms that worsen instead of improving, it’s time to check in with your healthcare provider. CBHSA offers both in-person and telehealth visits, making it easy to get the care you need, when you need it.

The combination of chilly wind outside and indoor heating can leave your skin, lips, and sinuses feeling irritated. Many people experience cracked hands, itchy skin, or stuffy noses all winter long. Small changes to your daily routine can offer real relief. Try using a humidifier in your bedroom at night or placing small bowls of water near heat sources to help add moisture back into the air.

Taking shorter, warm (not hot) showers and applying rich moisturizer while your skin is still damp can also help prevent dryness. Additionally, switching to gentle, fragrance-free cleansers may help your skin retain its moisture. And, as always, don’t forget to drink plenty of water, warm teas, and broth-based soups to stay hydrated from the inside out.

Shorter days and limited sunlight can also take a toll on your mood and energy levels. Some people experience the “winter blues,” while others may develop a more serious form of depression, called Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). Pay attention to your mental health; look out for symptoms like low energy, sleeping more than usual, and losing interest in activities you normally enjoy.

You can support your mood by getting outside during daylight hours whenever possible. Even a brief walk on a sunny day can make a difference. Stay connected with friends and family, even if it’s just a phone call or video chat. Keep up with your daily routines and build in activities you genuinely enjoy.

If you’re struggling, you’re not alone. Don’t wait to reach out; CBHSA can connect you with mental health resources and support.

Snow and ice can make winter beautiful, but risky. Slips, falls, and shoveling injuries are common this time of year. Stay safe by wearing sturdy, non-slip footwear, keeping walkways cleared, and warming up before lifting or shoveling snow.

Older adults and those with arthritis or heart issues should seek help with heavy outdoor tasks. It’s always better to prevent strain than to recover from injury.

Healthy habits are your best defense during the winter months. Try to “eat the rainbow” through fruits and vegetables. Frozen options are just as nutritious as fresh. Warm, hearty soups, whole grains, and lean proteins provide lasting energy. Try gentle indoor exercises, or bundle up for a brisk outdoor walk. Prioritize rest, hydration, and mindfulness to reduce stress and support healing.

From prevention to recovery, CBHSA is your trusted community partner through every season. We offer preventative care, chronic condition management, flu and COVID vaccines, sick visits, telehealth options, and mental health referrals.
The start of a new year is a great time to refocus on your health and wellness. Whether you need to refill medications, discuss ongoing health concerns, or just want to make sure you’re on track, we’re here for you.

Ready to start the new year strong? Call your local office to schedule an appointment with your provider.