Advice and resources Staying healthy during winter

Overview

Everyone should take care of themselves all year round, but in the winter people with health problems should take extra care as they may be more likely than others to become seriously ill.

Anyone who is a carer should also take every step possible to look after their own health, to prevent the spread of illnesses to more vulnerable people.

Flu and COVID-19 vaccines

One of the first steps to stay well is to have a flu jab and COVID-19 booster every year in autumn or early winter.

These are free for people who fit a certain criteria. Carers can also get a flu vaccine for free if the person they support would be left without support if they got sick.

The vaccines are a quick and easy injection. Needles can be scary but speak to your GP and they may be able to offer the flu vaccine by nasal spray instead.

If you feel ill

If you think you have flu or COVID-19, you should:

  • try to stay at home, rest, and keep warm
  • drink lots of fluids
  • have at least one hot meal every day
  • take the tablets you’ve been told to take
  • keep away from other people and stop the spread
  • tell people who need to come into your home that you have symptoms

If you are worried about your symptoms or they get worse, call your doctors’ surgery or NHS 111.

Prevent winter illness

Keep yourself and your home warm

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

  • Heat your home to at least 18°C in the rooms that you use the most, such as your living room and bedroom, try to reduce draughts, and keep you windows closed at night.
  • Wear several layers of thinner clothing rather than one thick layer as this will keep you warmer.
  • Make sure you are eating enough and having hot drinks.

Keep active

Keeping active can help you stay physically and mentally well and not get depressed.

It doesn’t matter what you do, as long as you are moving. Move around indoors and try not to sit still for too long.

Check your medicine cabinet

Ask your pharmacist what medicines you should have at home in case you get ill and make sure you have all the medicines you need before your pharmacy closes for the holidays.

If you are given any antibiotics or other medicines, remember to take them as your doctor or pharmacist tells you.

You can order prescriptions by visiting or phoning your doctor or pharmacy, or by using an app or online service approved by the NHS.

Watch 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.