As we go through the winter months, it is important to look after our health. Over the winter, then cases of cold and flu increase, and these can be worse in those that are more vulnerable to theeffects of the cold weather.

Who is most at risk from the colder weather?
- Those aged 65 years old and over
- Babies and children less than 5 years old
- Pregnant women
- Those with long term health conditions e.g. diabetes, heart disease, kidney disease etc.
- Those with a disability
- Those with a low income

What illnesses that are more common over the winter months?
- Cold
- Flu
- Chest infections

What can you do to help look after yourself over winter?
- Ensure that you have had your flu and COVID vaccinations if you are at a higher risk of getting seriously ill from these illnesses. To check if you are eligible for these vaccines for free, please check the NHS website at https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/vaccinations/flu-
influenza-vaccine/.

For children, make sure that they are up to date on their vaccinations as
well.
- Keeping warm, including ensuring that your home is well heated and wrapping up warm when you are out and about. This can help to prevent colds, flu and other health problems.
The temperature in your house should be at least 18°C in those rooms that you use the most, and make sure that your windows are closed overnight. Then when you are out the house, wrap up warm with a hat, gloves and a scarf. Covering your mouth with the scarf can help reduce the risk of chest infections.
- Make sure that you look after your mental health. Mental health is just as important as physical health, so make sure that you take the time to do things that you enjoy, such as spending time with your family and friends.
- Check up on vulnerable family, friends and neighbours. Keep in touch with them and ask them if they need any help with tasks around the house and other things like shopping for food.
- Ensure that you order your prescriptions in good time. This is especially important over Christmas and New Year when the pharmacy is closed for certain days. It is also important if the weather is forecast to be poor, meaning that you may not be able to leave the house.
- To stay healthy all year round, try to maintain a balanced diet and stay well hydrated. Also, to prevent the spread of infections, regularly wash your hands and clean dirty surfaces.

If you do start to feel unwell, for example, if you think that you have a cough or cold coming on, then please speak to the pharmacy and ask for advice. In the New Year, the government are set to change the way that pharmacies work so that they can support you further with more common minor ailments.

https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/seasonal-health/keep-warm-keep-well

https://mft.nhs.uk/app/uploads/sites/4/2018/04/Bliss-Common-Winter-Illnesses.pdf

https://www.england.nhs.uk/blog/take-care-of-yourself-and-look-out-for-others-this-winter

December 15th, 2023