Tips to stay well this winter from Trafford CCG | News and Events

Tips to stay well this winter from Trafford CCG

With winter looming NHS Trafford Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) and Public Health England are urging people to think about how cold weather this winter may affect you, your family and your home.

As temperatures drop, it is important people keep warm and well. Cold weather can kill and lead to serious health problems, such as heart attacks, strokes or pneumonia – those who are 65 or over, or who have a chronic health condition, are particularly at risk.

Dr Nigel Guest, Chief Clinical Officer at Trafford CCG and local Trafford GP, said:

“Throughout the cold weather, looking after yourself and others is essential to keeping healthy. Firstly, if you are eligible for the flu jab please get it now - it’s free and you need it as protection. If you have a long-term health condition, even one that is well managed, or you are pregnant, you are at greater risk of severe complications if you catch flu.

Children aged two, three and four can get a nose spray vaccination, which is a quick and painless way to get protected without the need for injections.”

There are also a variety of entitlements and benefits people can apply for if they struggling to keep their houses warm, such as Winter Fuel Payments and Cold Weather Payments. Information about these is available from the Government’s gov.uk website.

Top tips keep yourself healthy and your home warm this winter:

  • Do not put off getting the flu vaccination; if you are in an ‘at-risk’ group get it now. It is free because you need it. Call your GP Practice to see if you are eligible and to book an appointment.
  • Try to maintain indoor temperatures to at least 18C, particularly if you are not mobile, have long term illness or are 65 or over.
  • Protect water pipes from freezing by insulating them.
  • Look out for friends and family who may be vulnerable to the cold and ensure they have access to warm food, drinks and are managing to heat their homes adequately.
  • Carry out energy efficiency improvements to your home or encourage your landlord to do so.
  • Have all gas, solid fuel and oil burning appliances (i.e. boilers, heaters, cookers) serviced by a registered engineer.
  • If you meet the criteria, register for priority service with your energy and water supplier.
  • Check to see if you qualify for financial help this winter see gov.uk.

ENDS

Notes to editors

For more information please contact the NHS Trafford Clinical Commissioning Group press office: 0161 873 9527, lauren.collins3@nhs.net.

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