How to stay well this winter

To reduce the risk of spreading flu, use tissues when you cough or sneeze, wash your hands often with warm water and soap, and bin used tissues as quickly as possible. Catch it. Bin it. Kill it.

More information can be found here. 

Ask a pharmacist

When you are feeling unwell, and it's not an emergency, getting advice from your local pharmacist could be the best and quickest way to help you on your road to recovery.

Pharmacists are fully qualified to advise you on the best course of action.

If you can't get to a pharmacist yourself, ask someone to go for you or call your local pharmacy.

Not sure where your nearest pharmacist is? Find one here.

Stay warm and keep active

Keeping warm over the winter months can help to prevent colds, flu and more serious health problems such as heart attacks, strokes, pneumonia and depression.

Try and heat your home to at least 18°C (65°F).

Keep your bedroom window closed on winter nights. Breathing cold air can increases the risk of chest infections.

Keep active. Try not to sit still for more than an hour or so. Wear several layers of light clothes. Several layers trap warm air better than one bulky layer.

Make sure you're receiving all the help that you're entitled to.

Look out for other people

Other people, such as older neighbours, friends and family members, may need a bit of extra help over the winter.

Icy pavements and roads can be very slippery and cold weather can stop people from getting out and about. 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.