Staying well this winter

During winter, the cold weather can put people at higher risk of becoming unwell.

Some people are more vulnerable to the effects of cold weather than others. This includes those aged over 65, babies and young children, people with long-term health conditions and disabilities, pregnant women, and those on a low income who may struggle to pay heating bills.

We want to help you stay as well as possible over winter by sharing helpful information about your local health team. They are here to support you and your family by offering care that’s right for you, near where you live.

If you need to contact your GP practice, you can do so in three ways: online, by phone, or in person.  

Below are some simple tips to help you stay well this winter.

Flu and COVID-19 vaccinations
Flu and COVID-19 tend to be much more prevalent during the colder months of the year.

Those who are eligible for the free COVID-19 and flu vaccines this autumn can now book a vaccination appointment using the national booking service. Find out more.
 
Minor illnesses and injuries
You can treat very minor illnesses and injuries yourself at home. For colds and flu, it’s best to rest, keep warm, drink plenty of fluids and take painkillers such as paracetamol, ibuprofen, or aspirin.
 
Check your medicine cabinet
Be prepared and, if you can, have over the counter medicines at home for common conditions such as a cold, indigestion, or diarrhoea. A first aid kit with items like plasters, a thermometer and antiseptic is also useful. Ask your pharmacist if you need advice and always remember to keep medicines locked away or out of the reach of children. Find a pharmacy.
 
Keeping warm at home
If you’re not very mobile, are 65 or over, or have a health condition such as heart or lung disease, heat your home to at least 18C if you can. If possible, keep your bedroom at 18C all night and keep windows closed.

To reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome, babies should sleep in rooms heated to between 16C and 20C.
 
Dress up warm when you go out
Wear lots of thin layers – clothes made from cotton, wool, or fleecy fibres are particularly good at helping to maintain body heat and several layers are better at trapping warm air than one layer. Also wear well-fitting slippers and shoes with a grip, to avoid slipping when at home or out and about.
 
Coming to hospital
In a medical emergency, please dial 999 or visit your nearest Accident and Emergency department.
However, for most people, A&E will not be the most suitable place. Find information on how to access appropriate treatment when your condition is not an urgent medical problem related to an accident or illness here.
 
If you are visiting friends or relatives in hospital this winter, please take precautions to avoid catching or spreading winter viruses. Find information on how to prevent the spread of flu and other respiratory viruses here.