It's commonly known that flu has been a problem this winter, with cases having soared, and pharmacists and doctors issuing crucial advice on methods to avoid and treat the illness. However, if you'd like to try and swerve it completely as we head into January, a paramedic has urged Brits to make three simple changes to help.

Ella, a paramedic known as The Paramedic Mum on TikTok, uses her platform to share handy health advice and offer insights into her job. However, a little while back, she turned her attention tofluand what people can do to boost their immune systems and stay as well as possible throughout the winter months.

With the weather turning colder, and various illnesses doing the rounds, it's super helpful information to know. Not to mention, it's worth paying attention to as so many people were hospitalised with flu in December.

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In a video, she explained how she is "staying well" during cold and flu season. According to Ella, making three simple changes can make all the difference.

Ella said: "You need to be airing your house, ok? You need to be opening your windows, and let that musty, dusty, crustiness out of the window. Five, 10 minutes is all it takes in the morning.

"Just open the windows, because cold and flu viruses love to linger, ok? Let's let it out, let's let the fresh air in. Fresh air is amazing."

Little you may know, this is really crucial to do during the winter months. Increasing ventilation really reduces the concentration of airborne virus particles (such as flu) in indoor spaces, which reduces the chance of transmission.

When someone with flu breathes, coughs or sneezes, small virus-containing particles (aerosols) get released into the air. When a room is poorly ventilated, these particles can linger and accumulate, which boosts the risk of others breathing them in.

While Ella admitted this is something she shouldn't have to be saying, she emphasised just how important it is. She said: "Some of you aren't washing your hands.

"You're going to the toilet, and wiping your stinky bum, and then coming out and not washing your hands and touching everything and then putting your hands in your mouth. Simplest way to stay well, just wash your hands."

Naturally, this is super important advice. Hands should be regularly washed after using the loo and before eating or preparing food to avoid the spread of germs.

Ella also noted making sure you eat well is crucial, explaining: "Did you know that 70% of your immune system is made from your gut?

"You have to feed the good bacteria, you need to get your vitamins, you need to get your minerals to pump up your immune system, and this is why my immune system is tip top."

This is super important, as eating well significantly strengthens your immune system. This, in turn, will make you more resilient to flu viruses and potentially reduce severity.

However, it's important to note that no food can prevent flu completely. Following a balanced diet comprising of fruits, vegetables, lean protein and healthy fats works best together with good sleep, hydration and hygiene.

Key nutrients such as vitamins A, C, E, zinc and omega-3s from sources like citrus, nuts, leafy greens and fish also work to support immune cells and reduce inflammation. This will aid your body in fighting off infection.

Regarding treating flu, the NHS website states: "Flu will often get better on its own, but it can make some people seriously ill. It's important to get the flu vaccine if you're advised to."

Further information about symptoms and treatment can be found on the website. While it's wise to follow Ella's tips, it's also important to note that nothing can totally prevent flu or other viral illnesses.