NHS England and Public Health England have today launched their national campaign #staywellthiswinter

The main message is to Stay Well This Winter and to encourage people most at risk from cold weather, including those with long-term health conditions and the over 65s, to prepare for the lower temperatures.

The campaign’s key messages:
 
-Don’t put off getting the flu vaccination. If you’re eligible get it now. It’s free because you need it.

-If you start to feel unwell, even if it is just a cough or cold, don’t wait until it gets more serious; get help from your pharmacist. The sooner you get advice the better – pharmacists are here to help you stay well this winter.

-If you’ve been prescribed antibiotics or other medication, don’t forget to pick up your prescription before the Christmas holidays start.  Many GPs and pharmacies will close over the holidays.

-Food is a vital source of energy, which keeps your body warm. Try to make sure that you have hot meals and drinks regularly throughout the day and keep active in the home if you can.

-Winter can be seriously bad for our health but there a number of things you can do to keep you and your family well this winter.

-Cold weather can be very harmful, especially for people aged 65 or older: it weakens the immune system, increases blood pressure, thickens the blood and lowers body temperature, increasing risks of high blood pressure, heart attacks, strokes, and chest infections.
 
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