David Warburton MP for Somerton and Frome is supporting the Stay Well This Winter campaign being run by Public Health England and NHS England.
The campaign aims to; raise awareness of the vulnerability of the elderly during colder months, encourage support for those with long-term health conditions exacerbated by winter and urge people to get their flu jab and learn how to stay healthy this season.
David Warburton MP said, “If you’re elderly, suffer from a long term condition or have children between two and seven years-old, it is vital that you find out how to stay well this winter. Many people are eligible for free flu vaccinations and if you have older relatives or elderly neighbours remember to check that they’ve had a flu jab and keep an eye out for them.”
The Stay Well This Winter Advice includes;
• If you suffer from a long term health condition such as Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), a term used to describe a number of conditions including emphysema and chronic bronchitis; diabetes; heart or kidney disease; are aged 65 or over; or are pregnant, get the free flu vaccine now.
• If you’re a parent of a child aged 2-7, ensure your child is vaccinated against flu. Children aged 2, 3 and 4 can get the vaccination from their GP. Parents of children in school years 1, 2 and 3 are asked to give permission for their child to receive the free nasal spray vaccination at school.
• Seek immediate advice from your pharmacist at the first sign of winter illnesses, before it gets too serious.
• Heat your home to at least 18°C (65°F), if you can.
• Keep an eye out for elderly relatives and neighbours.
For further information about how you and your family can stay well this winter, please visit nhs.uk/staywell