Top tips to keep safe and well this winter

Current

Last published

Information to help you and your family stay well this winter, prepare for colder weather and know where to get help if you need it. 

Current

Last published

Vaccinations

  • Vaccinations are the best way to protect yourself from becoming seriously unwell and it is even more important to get vaccinated if you are at increased risk.
  • Make sure you are up-to-date with any vaccinations you are eligible for.
  • Covid-19, flu and RSV are more prevalent in the autumn and winter months, so at this time of year these vaccines are important, but you may also be able to get vaccinated against pertussis (whooping cough), MMR (measles, mumps and rubella) and a many other illnesses.
  • You can find out more and check which vaccinations you are eligible for using our online vaccinations information hub.

Current

Last published

Stop the spread of infection

  • Make sure you are up-to-date with any vaccinations you are eligible for. This is the best way to protect yourself and to reduce the spread of illness in the community.
  • If you have visitors, ventilate the room for a few minutes before and after they arrive to stop the spread of germs.
  • Washing your hands regularly can help to protect yourself and others from viruses such as flu and Covid-19.
  • Stay at home if you are unwell to reduce the number of people you have contact with.
  • Please wear a mask if healthcare providers ask you to do so.
  • If you are feeling unwell, please speak to your healthcare provider before attending appointments.

Current

Last published

Preventing respiratory illnesses

During autumn and winter we see more people seeking help from health services for respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and other respiratory problems, triggered by colder temperatures and an increase in common illnesses circulating.

  • If you are eligible, get vaccinated against flu, Covid-19 and RSV to minimise the risk of catching a respiratory infection.
  • People with certain long-term health conditions are at increased risk of complications from flu – but a flu vaccine gives you the best protection.
  • If you have a long-term respiratory condition, continue to take any medication as prescribed, particularly inhalers.
  • If you use an inhaler, check you are using it correctly. For more information, visit: How to use your inhaler | Asthma + Lung UK
  • Arrange an inhaler review with your community pharmacy or GP practice, to make sure you have the best type of inhaler for your needs and to confirm that your inhaler technique is correct.
  • Follow our advice in the section above about the actions you can take to help stop the spread of infections.

Current

Last published

Managing long-term conditions

If you have a long-term health condition, it is even more important that you manage your condition well all year round, but it is especially important at this time of year. This includes:

  • Living a healthy lifestyle
  • Taking medication as prescribed
  • Attending appointments and check-ups, even if you feel well
  • Self-monitoring so you can act quickly to triggers and flare-ups
  • Following your management plan if your condition deteriorates
  • Coming forward for care if you are unwell or you have a flare up in your condition, even at the weekend. Contact your GP practice or use NHS 111.

There are additional steps you can take in the autumn and winter to keep yourself well. 

  • You are at increased risk of becoming seriously unwell if you catch illnesses such as flu and Covid-19, so get vaccinated against any illnesses you are eligible for. See our vaccinations page.
  • Check if you are eligible for Covid-19 treatment. The NHS offers treatments for COVID-19 to people who are at the highest risk of becoming seriously ill. For more information, visit www.nhs.uk/CovidTreatments
  • People with a long-term condition can be more vulnerable in the cold weather. Keeping warm can help to prevent colds, flu and more serious health problems such as heart attacks, strokes and pneumonia. 
  • Keep an eye on the weather forecast so you can plan ahead so you don’t need to go out in very cold weather, for example by stocking up on food and getting any medication you might need.
  • If you do need to go out, wear a scarf over your mouth to prevent chest infections.  Alternatively, ask a neighbour, relative or friend to go out for you.
  • Also, see our advice above about stopping the spread of infections and preventing respiratory illnesses.

Current

Last published

Keeping warm

  • Keep your home warm.
  • Try to heat rooms you spend a lot of time in to at least 18 degrees C.
  • Reduce drafts and keep your bedroom windows closed at night.
  • Wearing several layers of thinner clothing could keep your warmer than one thicker layer.
  • Try not to sit still for more than an hour or so. 
  • Ensure you are eating enough and having hot drinks.
  • If you struggle to heat your home for financial reasons, there may be grants and support available to help you through local councils.
  • Local councils also provide warm spaces in community locations such as libraries.

Current

Last published

Look out for others

Some people may need extra help over winter. Remember to check in on older neighbours, friends and family members to see if they need anything.

Icy pavements and cold weather can stop people from going out. Keeping stocked up with food for a few days is advised in case they cannot go out. 

If they do need to go out, encourage them to wear shoes with a good grip and a scarf around the mouth to protect them from cold air.

Current

Last published

Getting the right care

In the autumn and winter, health services tend to be busier than normal. At this time of year, it is more important than ever that people follow the advice that the NHS gives all year round to help you get the right care as quickly as possible. 

  • Consider whether you can treat the illness and injury yourself, or with support from NHS 111 online, the NHS App or a local pharmacy.
  • If it’s urgent, contact your GP practice, use NHS 111 or go to a walk-in service.
  • There are a wide range of services in your local community to support you with your mental health and wellbeing.
  • The Emergency Department and 999 is for life threatening emergencies only.
  • Even if services are busy and you need help, don’t delay coming forward for care.

Current

Last published

Looking after your mental health and wellbeing

Crisis Cafés

There are Crisis Cafés spread around Northamptonshire, run by trained and supportive staff, who are there to listen and provide the practical support when you need it most. If you’re struggling with your mental health, they can help you make plans so you feel safer, explain who you can turn to for help locally and help you to manage your own mental health so you can start to feel more in control.

Support is tailored to individuals’ needs but could include:

• A safe and relaxing space where you can be yourself and take part in gentle activities
• One-to-one support with a member of our team to explore ways to cope and how to manage your mental health
• Practical advice and information about other services that might be helpful to you for longer-term support

 

Northamptonshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust

You can find more mental health and wellbeing support on Northamptonshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust’s website, including:

  • Information on urgent mental health support
  • Downloadable resources
  • Signposting
  • Support for children & young people.

Current

Last published

Get Weather Ready

You can take some simple steps to help you prepare for and respond to the weather. 

The Met Offices’ Weather Ready campaign provides a wealth of advice to keep you safe and well.

Current

Last published

Rating