Keep yourself and others safe from winter viruses

Article date: 16 October 2023

Preventable illnesses such as flu and Covid-19 are more common during the colder months, bringing potential risks for all of us, particularly for those vulnerable due to age or underlying illnesses.

But there are some very simple and easy to follow ways of protecting ourselves and others from preventable seasonal illnesses.

• Get vaccinated for flu and Covid-19 and pneumococcal.
• Catch coughs and sneezes with tissues or your upper arm, dispose of tissues responsibly and wash or sanitise your hands after and often.
• Try to stay home and avoid contact with other people if you have a temperature, diarrhoea or vomiting that could be infectious, or are feeling too unwell to do your normal activities.
• Clean and ventilate your home when you have visitors, or meet outdoors, but be mindful of the temperature inside and outside your home (keep it 16 degrees or more).
• Stay informed about local and national public health guidance on the Government or NHS websites: www.nhs.uk/live-well/seasonal-health/keep-warm-keep-well/

Councillor Anthony Burns, St Helens Borough Council's Cabinet Member for Wellbeing, Culture and Heritage, said:

"Last month Covid-19 cases rose sharply across the country and in St Helens Borough, so it's important to be mindful that the illness' dangers, and similarly that of seasonal flu, are still here presenting risks to the more vulnerable in our families and our communities.

"During the pandemic, people across St Helens Borough came together to protect family, friends, colleagues and neighbours, making a real difference and preventing outbreaks. We can still apply the lessons learned from that difficult period to future winters, to protect ourselves and those dear to us, not only from Covid-19, but also other common preventable illnesses."

Ruth Du Plessis, Director of Public Health for St Helens Borough Council, added: "Small actions can make a real difference when it comes to preventable winter illnesses, not only for ourselves, but the whole community.

"As we did during the pandemic, we very much rely on each other to stay safe and healthy. We appreciate the effort and vigilance everyone will put in, and if you have any further questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to contact NHS 111 or your local pharmacy for clarification."

For lots more health advice visit www.sthelens.gov.uk/health, and for winter-wellness tips visit www.sthelens.gov.uk/winterwell.