Keeping well in winter - Rachael Musgrave

Keeping well in winter - Rachael Musgrave

It is that time of year again where our days get shorter, the weather gets colder and we all begin to face the threat of winter viruses, including flu.

For many of us, flu is unpleasant but usually gets better within a week. However, there is a risk of severe illness from catching flu for older people, the very young, pregnant women and those with certain health conditions. For that reason, boosting your immunity by getting your flu vaccine is one of the kindest things you can do, for yourself and your family and friends. The flu vaccine is safe and effective and is also available for children aged 2 and 3 as well as all primary school and some secondary school aged children in the form of a nasal spray.

Winter is also expected to bring a fresh wave of Covid-19 and as with the flu, vaccination is our greatest defence against the virus. As flu vaccines are rolled out, so too are the latest Covid-19 boosters with those eligible being able to book a booster at the same time as the flu jab. My message to you is to ensure that you are fully up to date with your vaccinations to keep you, and others around you, as protected as possible.

If you are not eligible for the Covid-19 booster or the flu vaccine you can still take your own additional actions to help reduce the risk of becoming unwell such as wearing a mask when in crowded areas, keeping rooms well ventilated and making sure you are regularly washing your hands.

Beyond the challenges of winter illnesses, the increase in energy bills has hit us all over the past few months and prices are set to rise again over the coming seasons. We all need to ensure we are able to keep warm as the cold weather sets in.

Cold homes can have a huge impact on your physical health and mental wellbeing and for that reason, Wigan Council has launched the Here for You campaign which aims to give you support and guidance if you are facing financial hardships this winter, including providing advice on AWARM.

The free AWARM service is available to those on low income, with high energy costs or a health condition / circumstances that are affected by living in a cold damp home. Along with providing advice on benefit entitlements, the AWARM service may be able to help with a boiler replacement or fuel vouchers among other things, so make sure you follow the Here For You campaign.

The sooner you act, and the more steps you take to get your home winter ready, the better.

Book your winter vaccinations (external link).

Further information is available at Wigan’s Here For You campaign.