Eating well and keeping active over the winter months can help prevent winter ailments.

Get an annual flu jab
You can get a free jab from your GP if you:

• have serious heart, lung or kidney disease or diabetes
• have a weak immune system, caused by disease or medical treatment
• have had a stroke or TIA (transient ischaemic attack)
• are aged 65 years or over
• are pregnant

Eat Well
Eating regular meals will help keep your energy levels up during winter.
Try to:
• have plenty of hot food and drinks
• plan your meals and keep your diet as varied as possible
• aim to include five portions of fruit and vegetables daily - this includes tinned and frozen fruit and vegetables

Stay active
Exercise is good for your overall health and it can keep you warm in winter. Even a small amount of exercise can bring health benefits. If possible, try to move around at least once an hour. Click here for more information.

Recognise the signs of hypothermia
Hypothermia is caused by getting too cold. Older people, babies and people with certain health conditions are among those more at risk.

Shivering can be used as a guide to how severe hypothermia is. If a person can stop shivering on their own, the hypothermia is mild. If they can’t stop shivering, it’s moderate to severe. Severe hypothermia needs urgent medical treatment in hospital. Click here for more information on hypothermia.

Looking out for elderly neighbours
If you are worried about a relative or an elderly neighbour, contact your local council. You can also call the free Age UK advice line on 0800 169 6565.