STAYING well in winter is imperative.

The elderly, or those with underlying health conditions, such as respiratory problems, can be particularly susceptible to the cold snap and, so the saying goes, prevention is always better than the cure.

'Stay Well this Winter' is a joint initiative from NHS England and Public Health England to help people with long-term health conditions, those over 65 and the public prepare for winter and avoid common winter illnesses.

The campaign also aims to ensure people who are most at-risk of preventable emergency admission to hospital are aware of, and where possible, are motivated to take actions that may avoid admission this winter.

Cold weather can weaken the immune system, increase blood pressure, thicken the blood and lower body temperature in those aged 65 and above. It can also increase the risk of high blood pressure, heart attacks, strokes and chest infections.

Approximately 6.8 million people under the age of 65 are living with a long term health condition and those with health problems such as COPD, bronchitis, emphysema, diabetes, heart or kidney disease or who have suffered a stroke, the cold weather can exacerbate their condition.

Last winter 2,745 people were hospitalised due to the flu in a network of 26 trusts in England.

Sarah Horsfall, district nurse team leader covering inner city Bradford with Bradford District Care NHS Foundation Trust - who has been working with the NHS since 1985 and in the community since 1991 - acknowledges that many may be put off having the flu jab, but for older people and those with underlying health conditions it is imperative they make their appointment if they haven't already done so.

She says often when people have had the flu jab and they feel ill it can be coincidental and that it is likely they were already suffering from a viral illness before having the vaccination.

However, she advises people who feel ill not to have their flu vaccination until they are feeling better but she emphasizes the importance of those, particularly with underlying health problems, to have the vaccination to prevent their problems being exacerbated should they have the flu.

Everyone aged 65 and over; all pregnant women, at any stage of their pregnancy; two, three and four-year-olds; children in school years 1, 2 and 3; everyone living in a residential home; carers; household contacts of anyone who is immunocompromised and all frontline health and social care workers are recommended to have the flu vaccine in the autumn before outbreaks of the flu begin.

The flu season runs from early September until March so, as Sarah explains, it isn't too late to have the vaccine.

Falls are another concern over the winter months. "Anybody who has had a fall are likely to have further falls. If you have problems with your mobility, a stroke, dizziness or neurological disorders you are more at risk of falling," explains Sarah.

Often people are referred to the district nursing team if they have been to the hospital A&E department following a fall. Through a fall review and comprehensive health and social check the team will then identify what may be causing them to fall such as footwear as well as physical elements such as failing eyesight.

With Christmas around the corner it is also imperative to make sure you have the medication you need when access to doctor surgeries and pharmacies will be more limited during the holiday period.

Sarah also advises people not to ignore minor ailments and to seek advice from the pharmacist who can supply treatments for common conditions such as coughs and colds.

"It is about being prepared; keeping your house at 18 degrees, it should be at least 18 degrees in the main living room, keeping windows closed at night and wearing several layers and having at least one hot meal a day - small frequent meals rather than one massive meal such as soups, rice puddings and drink plenty, keep hydrated," advises Sarah.

For more information about The Stay Well This Winter campaign visit bdct.nhs.uk/stay-well-this-winter.