Cold weather can be seriously bad for your health. That's why it's important to look after yourself, especially during the winter. If you start to feel unwell, even if it's a cough or a cold, don't wait until it gets more serious. Seek advice from your pharmacist. Remember that A&E is only for life-threatening emergencies.
Following these tips can help to make sure you and your family stay well during the winter months:
- Make sure you get your flu jab. NHS professionals, people over 65, those living with long term conditions, carers, pregnant woman and children aged 2-3 are all eligible for free flu jabs. These are available through GP surgeries, your local pharmacy or regular clinics for NHS staff.
- Keep your home at 18°C (65°F) or higher if you can. There are a number of financial schemes and discounts to help you pay for heating
- Wear several layers of clothes rather than one chunky layer – clothes made from cotton, wool or fleecy fibres help to maintain body heat
- Stay active – even moderate exercise can help keep you warm
- Look out for other people who may need a bit of extra help over the winter
- Visit your local pharmacist as soon as you start to feel unwell with any symptoms of a winter illness
The Met Office provides weather forecasts on radio and TV, so listen in to these bulletins regularly to keep up to date with the weather.
Severe weather warnings are also issued on the Met Office website, through the Met Office Twitter feed, or you can call the Weather Desk on 0370 900 0100 or 01392 885 680.
The Met office also has advice on getting ready for winter. This includes suggestions for practical things you can do to prepare for winter weather, including cold, ice and snow, high winds and flooding.
For more information about staying healthy during Winter, just visit NHS Choices.