How to stay well this winter

About cold weather and health: who is at risk

Whilst exposure to cold can affect anyone, some people are particularly at risk. These include:

• older people (aged 65 and above)
• people with cardiovascular (heart and circulation) conditions
• people with respiratory conditions (in particular chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and childhood asthma)
• people with mental health conditions
• people with learning and/or physical disabilities
• young children (particularly those aged under 5)
• pregnant women
• people on a low income

There are many reasons for the increased risk of ill-health in cold weather. These include:

• poor-quality housing and particularly cold homes
• the higher frequency of circulating infectious diseases, such as flu and norovirus during the winter months
• physical hazards such as snow and ice

During cold weather, people may also use malfunctioning or inappropriate appliances to heat their homes. This can increase the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. When a house is damp as well as cold, mould is more likely to occur. This can increase the risk of illness, especially from asthma.

Support for Bury residents to keep you well this winter 

Get advice if you feel unwell

If you’re 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 practice – you may be able to speak to a health professional or over the phone, or go in for an appointment if they think you need to
• NHS 111 – go to 111.nhs.uk or call 111 if you have an urgent medical problem and you are not sure what to do. A SignVideo service is available for members of the Deaf community.

Cold weather health advice