ADVICE is available to help Warwickshire residents stay well and out of hospital this winter.
Over the next few months, Warwickshire County Council will be raising awareness of the various ways people can look after their health, stay well and avoid a hospital stay.
Colds, flu and Covid-19 are more prevalent during the colder months and can spread more easily and as a result, WCC is raising awareness of the steps people can take to reduce the spread of viruses, protecting themselves and more vulnerable people.
Vaccines offer the best protection against viruses like Covid-19 and flu, and WCC is encouraging anyone who has been invited for these vaccinations to attend their appointment as soon as possible.
Getting a flu and COVID-19 vaccine is free for anyone over 65 or with a long-term health condition.
Staying away from others and regularly washing hands when feeling unwell will also help to reduce the spread of viruses along with ‘catch it, bin it, kill it’ when coughing and sneezing.
WCC says that doing all these things will help reduce ‘winter pressures’ on our health services so that those that need acute or emergency health and social care support can get the help they need at the right time and in the right place.
And many people will feel the pressures arising from the cost of living this winter. WCC has services for residents who need extra support. Information on how to manage increased household costs can be found at https://www.costoflivingwarwickshire.co.uk/
WCC’s health spokesperson Coun Margaret Bell said: “We’re now in the ‘winter pressure’ time of year where we must all work together to ensure that people in Warwickshire are receiving the right support at the right time in the right place.
“We know that the winter months can present some challenges to our health and wellbeing as viruses spread and financial pressures increase.
“We want to help keep people healthy at home and out of hospital during a period where there are extra pressures on the health and social care system. The advice shared by Warwickshire County Council aims to support people to look after themselves and others, so please follow it if you can and stay well this winter.”
For more help and advice visit www.warwickshire.gov.uk/winterwellness
