How to stay well this winter

Winter conditions present an increased risk to our health, especially if you are older or have a long-term health condition such as heart or kidney disease, asthma or diabetes.

Being cold can raise the risk of increased blood pressure, heart attacks and strokes. The cold, damp weather can aggravate existing health problems, making you more vulnerable to respiratory winter illnesses. But there are things you can do to stay well.

Top tips to stay well from the NHS

• Get your vaccines and boosters. Make sure you get your Covid-19 booster and flu vaccination if you are eligible.
• Keep warm during the day. Wrap up in lots of layers of thin clothes, even when you go to bed. Keep doors closed to block draughts. Try to heat rooms you regularly use to at least 18°C. Make sure you're getting the help you're entitled to with your heating costs.
• Keep moving. Move around indoors and try to get outside for a walk. Avoid sitting for more than one hour. 
• Wrap up at night. Wear layers to bed, including socks. Use a hot water bottle or an electric blanket. (Don't use a hot water bottle and electric blanket together.) Keep your windows closed at night. 
• Eat well. Make sure you eat a balanced diet with lots of seasonal fruit and vegetables. And try to eat at least one hot meal a day.  
• Stay hydrated. Regular meals and hot drinks can help you keep warm.
• Have your medication on hand. Make sure you have the right medicines at home in case you get poorly. Ask your pharmacist if you're not sure what medications you should have. 
• Stop the spread of germs. Protect yourself and others by washing your hands with warm, soapy water, covering your mouth when you cough or sneeze, and wearing a mask in public spaces.
• Look after your mental health. The winter months can take a toll on our mental wellbeing, so make sure you're looking after your mental health, just as you do your physical health. If you are feeling down, speak to someone – a friend, family member, or a healthcare professional like your doctor. 

If you get ill

• If you need medical help right now, call 111 or use NHS 111 online.
• If it is a real emergency and life-threatening, then you can call 999.
• If it's less urgent, contact your doctor or pharmacist. Find out how your pharmacy can support you. 

Look out for others

• Keep in touch with your friends, neighbours and family and ask if they need any practical help, or if they’re feeling under the weather.
• Make sure they’re stocked up with enough food supplies for a few days, in case they can’t go out.
• If they do need to go out in the cold, encourage them to wear shoes with a good grip and a scarf around the mouth to protect them from the cold air, and to reduce their risk of chest infections.
• Make sure they get any prescription medicines if bad weather is forecast.
• If you're concerned about someone's health or safety, call NHS 111 for health advice, or 999 in an emergency.