Important information about how you can stay well over the colder months.
Some people are more vulnerable to the effects of cold weather:
- people aged 65 and older
- babies and children under the age of 5
- people on a low income (so cannot afford heating)
- people who have a long-term health condition
- people with a disability
- pregnant women
- people who have a mental health condition
Get advice if you feel unwell
If you are 65 or over, or in one of the other at-risk groups, it's important to get medical help as soon as you feel unwell.
You can get help and advice from:
- a pharmacy – pharmacists can give treatment advice for a range of minor illnesses and can tell you if you need to see a doctor
- your GP – you may be able to speak to a GP online or over the phone, or go in for an appointment if they think you need to
- NHS 111 – go to NHS 111 (opens in a new tab) or call 111 if you have an urgent medical problem and you’re not sure what to do
The sooner you get advice, the sooner you are likely to get better.
Get the flu vaccine
Flu will often get better on its own, but it can make some people seriously ill. It's important to get the flu vaccine if you're advised to.
The flu vaccine is a safe and effective vaccine. It's offered every year on the NHS to help protect people at risk of flu and its complications.
The best time to have the flu vaccine is in the autumn before flu starts spreading. But you can get the vaccine later.
Find out more about the:
Coronavirus
Everybody who is eligible to receive the autumn COVID-19 booster is encouraged to book their appointment as soon as possible, either by booking through the NHS’ national booking service via the NHS website (opens in a new tab), or calling 119 if they do not have access to the internet.
Urgent advice: COVID-19 symptoms
Get NHS advice about COVID-19, including symptoms, testing, vaccination and staying at home.