Everyone can prepare themselves for the cold weather, by following some simple measures:

Flu Vaccination  As we prepare for more cold weather we advise you to make sure you have a flu jab if you are: aged 65 or over, pregnant, have certain medical conditions, live in a residential or nursing home, or are the main carer for an older or disabled person. If you are a frontline health or social care worker, have your flu jab. If you are aged 65 or over, ensure you have had your pneumococcal vaccination.

Heating check  Have all gas, solid fuel and oil burning appliances (i.e. boilers, heaters and cookers) serviced by an appropriately registered engineer. Malfunctioning appliances can release carbon monoxide - a gas which at high levels will kill and at lower levels can cause health problems. Make sure flues and chimneys are swept and checked for blockages and that there is adequate ventilation in rooms to allow appliances to work properly. You should also fit an audible carbon monoxide alarm which is EN50291 compliant, but fitting an alarm should not replace regular maintenance of appliances.

Winter Vomiting Norovirus – also called the winter vomiting bug – strikes this time of year. Good hand hygiene, especially after using the toilet, helps prevent the infection spreading to friends and relatives. Clean contaminated surfaces thoroughly and more frequently whilst they or someone in the home has norovirus infection.

Clothing  Wear well gripping shoes to prevent falls in cold weather and wear several layers of clothes to stay warm.

Check NHS choices (www.nhs.uk [external link]) for health guidance on winter ailments (flu, winter vomiting, cold temperatures).