Karen Howell's health column: 'Being prepared this winter'

Winter is a time when we need to take extra steps to stay safe and well, as cold weather can make some health problems worse and even lead to serious complications.

This is especially true if you're 65 or older, or if you have a long-term health condition.

Being prepared is the best way forward to ensure we stay well over the coming months. We are reminded of the advice that ‘prevention is better than cure’.

So how can we be prepared and look after our families this winter?

Vaccinations are your first port of call. Get your coronavirus (Covid-19) booster and flu vaccination this winter to get extra protection from these viruses. The vaccines are safe and effective and give you the best protection against flu and Covid-19. They also help to protect others, as you’re less likely to pass the viruses on to others if you’re vaccinated.

Having the flu vaccine every year is important because the viruses that cause flu change. Likewise, your immunity from the Covid-19 vaccine reduces over time, which is why the booster is needed.

You're eligible for free Covid-19 and flu vaccinations if you are over 50, pregnant, have a weakened immune system or you have a long-term health condition that puts you at greater risk. Speak to your GP practice about arranging your vaccines. You can also visit www.nhs.uk to book an appointment at a local vaccination centre.

The children's nasal spray flu vaccine is offered every year. Our school age immunisation team is working with all schools across Wirral to help protect children against flu, and 2-3 year olds are offered the flu spray via their GP practice. It is free and is a quick, simple, and painless spray up the nose. Even if your child had the vaccine last year, types of flu can vary, or some children may never have been exposed to the flu virus.

Each year the vaccine is adapted to protect against different strains so it is recommended to have it annually to maximise protection. If you are a parent or carer and need to speak to a member of the immunisations team for advice or guidance, or to book an appointment, please call 0151 514 2510 (Monday - Friday, 9.00am - 5.00pm.) You can also access a range of information and support via their Facebook pages @0219HVHub and @MyHealthWirral.

Just as important as vaccinations is the power of antibiotics. They can treat and even prevent infection and are invaluable for those who are particularly vulnerable to infection. Because they are so precious, we must ensure we keep them working.

Antibiotics do not work for everything, so we must use them in the right way. Take your doctor, nurse or pharmacist’s advice on whether you need them or not - taking antibiotics when you do not need them can mean they will not work for you in the future, putting you and your family at risk.

Remember, antibiotics will not help you to get better if you have a cold, the flu or Covid-19 - antibiotics are not effective against viruses. You should only take them if you have symptoms of a bacterial infection that is making you unwell – a healthcare professional will advise you on this.

Only take antibiotics prescribed to you, do not share them with family or friends. Complete the full course as prescribed and do not save any for a later date. Never demand antibiotics if your health worker says you don’t need them. Always follow the advice given when using antibiotics.

Protect the environment by returning any unused antibiotics to a community pharmacy for appropriate disposal. Do not dispose of them in the toilet or sink.

We know that by playing our part we can make a big difference overall, and this couldn’t be truer for getting vaccinated and correctly using antibiotics. We need to continue to work together to prevent serious infections, to help us and our loved ones stay well this winter.

For winter wellness advice, including keeping warm and help with heating, looking out for others and advice for when you do feel unwell this winter, visit www.nhs.uk or search ‘how to stay well in winter.’