Does Australia's love for sport making it sick?

More than a third (44%) of Aussies stayed up late last month, according to a new poll. Alternatively, Aussie sports fan set the alarm early to watch Wimbledon, Tour de France, and Olympic Games.

It might just be a testament how much Aussie love their sports. But it does come with a heft cost to their health. Of those who stayed up late, fifty-two per cent (52%) later suffered from cold and flu symptoms, or the so-called "Game" flu.

“Research shows a strong link between lack of sleep and immunity. Individuals burning the candle at both ends and those who suffer poor sleep quality are more susceptible to common colds, flu and other viruses”, said Dr Ginni Mansberg, General Practitioner and Women and Children’s Health Expert.

This year's cold and flu season affected twice the number of people who contracted influenza around the same time last year. Professor Dominic Dwyer, a medical virologist, said it's the biggest outbreak of influenza since swine flu.

"Viruses are highly contagious and can remain active on surfaces for up to 48 hours. However, protecting your family from the germs that cause colds and flu can be easier than you think," advised Prof. Dwyer, a member of The Hygiene Council.

"Since colds and flu can spread via hands and surfaces, good home and personal hygiene is essential."

Fortunately, more than half (56%) of Aussies polled, take preventative measures such as using anti-bacterial hand washes or anti-bacterial surface cleaners. According to The Hygiene Councile, these measures are are the easiest ways to help greatly reduce the chances of catching and spreading cold, flu and bugs.

However, Prof Dwyer expressed concernt hat only 37% of those polled admitted staying at home to recover from the flu.

"It 's quite alarming really, the number of people infected that are prepared to persist at work rather than resting - so staying vigilant about hygiene is critical when it comes to preventing cold and flu," said Prof. Dwyer.

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