Stay Well this Winter is NHS England’s annual winter campaign that aims to reduce the negative impacts of cold temperatures and winter weather on our health and wellbeing.
Winter conditions can be bad for our health, especially for people aged 65 or over and people with long-term conditions. Being cold increases the risk of high blood pressure, heart attacks and strokes. It could also suppress our immune system, lung capacity, and ability to fight off infection.
There are things we can do to stay well in winter:
- Heat our home to at least 18°C (65°F).
- Keep the bedroom window closed on winter nights, as breathing cold air can increase the risk of chest infections.
- Stay active when we are indoors and try not to sit still for more than an hour or so.
- Get the flu vaccination – ask your pharmacist or GP if you are eligible for the free flu jab.
- If you feel unwell, don’t wait for symptoms to get worse – you can consult your local pharmacy first.
- If you are worried about your health, visit the NHS Website, call NHS111, or in an emergency call 999.
- Look out for other people who may need a bit of extra help over the winter.
For more advice on keeping warm and well, you can find the leaflets by Public Health England and by Age UK here.