Keeping well during the winter
Looking after yourself and others
Winter can be a difficult time for many, cold weather can lead to serious health problems and can kill. Older people, those with chronic health conditions and people who have a disability, are particularly at risk during the cold weather.
It is a good time to think about how cold weather and winter viruses may affect you, your family, and your home. Keep a check on older friends, neighbours, and relatives and help them to stay well at home by making sure they are able to take care of themselves or with some help. This could include help with shopping, cooking and personal hygiene to help prevent them from getting ill.
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Tips to stay well from the NHS:
- Wrap up warm, inside and out when it is cold. Several thin layers of clothes are better than one thick layer.
- Move around at least once an hour and don’t sit down for long periods of time.
- If possible, stay inside during a cold period if you have heart or respiratory problems.
- Ensure your home is heated to at least 18oC, day and night.
Make sure you're getting the help you're entitled to with your heating costs: Citizens Advice
Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Service also offers free safe and well visits to help you stay safe and reduce the risk of fire in your home.
NHS tips and information on keeping well in the winter
Protect yourself with the right vaccines
Flu and Covid-19 can both be life-threatening and spread more easily in the winter. If you are aged 65 or older, you can get a free flu vaccine and Covid-19 booster.
Tummy bugs such as Norovirus also start to circulate as winter approaches - to prevent the spread of tummy bugs remember to wash your hands and clean surfaces frequently if someone within the household is unwell and allow until 48 hours after you last had symptoms before returning to work or school.
NHS Stay Well This Winter Leaflet
This leaflet provides advice on how to stay well this winter including:
- Getting your COVID-19 and flu vaccinations
- What to do if you suspect you have COVID-19
- Keeping warm
- Fire safety at home
- Keeping active
- Mental health support
- Medicines and prescriptions
- Handwashing advice
- Looking out for other people
- Where to go for the right medical care
For anyone living in Warwickshire who is worried about keeping their home warm, there is a free advice line, run by Act on Energy. The service can also help with fuel bills and benefits advice entitlements, including whether you are eligible for heating and insulation measures.
call Act On Energy on 0800 988 2881
WCC Winter Wellness Leaflet
'A guide to help you stay safe and well this winter 2023/24.'
WCC Cost Of Living Leaflet
'With everyday costs still rising, we would
like to signpost you to the government
and local support packages available, as
well as professional organisations who
are able to offer advice and assistance
during these difficult times.'
