The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued a stern warning to Brits in the forthcoming days. It comes as temperatures are set to drop across much of the UK later this week.
Forecasters are predicting temperatures will plummet from Thursday (February 6) onwards, as clear but cold weather takes hold. The Met Office is warning of ‘wintry’ showers, adding that it will ‘feel colder with widespread overnight frosts’ and temperatures ‘below normal’.
The Exeter-based weather experts have added that it could lead to a spell of ‘much colder conditions (that) could develop across the UK, with a risk of wintry showers in some parts’ towards the weekend and beyond.
This has prompted the UKHSA to issue a stark warning to Brits, urging people to make sure they are ready for the incoming cold weather. Taking to Instagram, it said: “Look out for others as (the) termpature drops.
“Cold weather can have serious consequences for health. Older people, young children, and those with certain long-term health conditions may be particularly at risk.”
“Anyone can become unwell if they get too cold,” it continued. “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.”
The UKHSA also said pregnant women, people with learning disabilities, people at risk of falls, people who live alone and may be unable to care for themselves, people who are housebound or have low mobility, and people living in deprived circumstances were also at risk.
It added that poor quality housing and particularly cold homes exacerbated the problem, while a higher frequency of circulating infectious diseases, such as flu and norovirus during the winter months also made things worse. There are also physical hazards such as snow and ice.
It suggested heating rooms you spend time in to at least 18C, reducing draughts were possible, keeping windows closed at night, and wearing several layers of thin clothing, as this ‘could keep you warmer than one thicker layer’.
“You can get vaccinated to help reduce risk from respiratory illnesses during the winter. This is particularly important if you have certain long-term health conditions that mean you are more vulnerable to the effects of cold weather,” it continued.
“You should treat minor winter ailments like colds or sore throats promptly. If bad weather is forecast, plan ahead and check that you’ve got enough medication and food in case it’s harder to leave the house. If you cannot leave the house, try to identify others who might be able to help pick up food and medication on your behalf.
“Other people around you, particularly older neighbours, family friends and neighbours, may need extra support during cold weather.