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Stay healthy this winter and look out for your elderly neighbours

Posted on Tuesday 17th December 2019
Stay-safe-this-winter-newsroom

Stay healthy this winter, be a flu fighter and keep an eye out for your elderly neighbours are the messages from health bosses in Staffordshire.

The elderly and vulnerable shouldn’t hesitate this winter but seek help at the first sign of an illness – even if it’s just a cough or a cold. Local pharmacists or NHS 111 will be able to advise on symptoms and whether people need to see a doctor.

And as winter bites, people are also being urged to be a ‘Flu Fighter’ and look out for their friends, relatives and neighbours who may be vulnerable to the cold. People aged 65 and over, pregnant women, those with underlying health conditions, carers and children aged two to nine are also being urged to take up their free flu vaccination if they haven’t already done so.

Alan White, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Health, Care and Wellbeing at Staffordshire County Council said:

“With the cold weather expected to remain with us for a few more months, it’s important we’re prepared and do what we can to keep ourselves and others healthy.

“Those who are eligible for free flu vaccinations should have them as soon as possible if they haven’t already done so. Getting the flu at any age is not a pleasant experience, but it can be a lot more serious for older people who may suffer more if they get it.

“Older neighbours, friends and relatives can also be more vulnerable in the winter months too and may need a little extra help. Please keep in touch with them and check they’re warm and have enough healthy food to keep them going.”

Some tips to keep warm and well this winter:

  • Keep rooms heated to at least 18C.
  • Have regular hot meals and drinks throughout the day. Keep active to help you stay warm.
  • Wear a few layers of thin clothing rather than one thick layer. 
  • When you need to go outside: wear shoes with soles that have good grip and are slip resistant.
  • Stay tuned to the weather forecast and plan ahead with supplies. 
  • Get financial support to improve your home insulation, improve your heating or get help with bills. 

The county council is currently running the Staffordshire Warmer Homes initiative which is offering gas central heating to people who don’t currently have it and meet the scheme criteria. People can find out more by calling freephone 0333 2024481 or at www.staffordshire.gov.uk/Warmer-Homes

For more general advice on staying healthy this winter visit https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/healthy-body/keep-warm-keep-well/

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