Health chiefs in Hungary have clamped down on Father Christmas, suggesting the children's favourite should avoid kissing children and shaking their hands to prevent spreading flu this Winter.
They recommend that all people dressing up as Father Christmas should get vaccinated against the illness.
Some officials in the Eastern European country had argued for a complete ban on the traditional "Meet Santa" amusements which are available in many shopping centres at Christmas time.
However measures have been taken to control the spread of bacteria and medics warned of increased risks of contagion due to a nationwide flu epidemic.
In Hungary, Santa Claus traditionally comes on December 6th, when children find gifts in shoes placed on window sills the night before.
"For Santa Clauses, prevention is especially important as they meet lots of children in early December, and therefore face a high risk of infection," medics said.
"If Santa Claus is elderly, overweight or has a chronic illness, and therefore belongs to a high risk group concerning the flu, then getting a vaccination against flu is particularly important."
Martin Noakes, U.K. around 2 years, 5 months ago