With the cold weather set to continue, the deputy chief medical officer for Wales, Dr Jane Wilkinson, has reminded people of simple steps to stay safe and well during this cold weather.
The Met Office is predicting that temperatures will continue to hover around freezing this week, with overnight temperatures across much of Wales falling well below freezing.
Dr Wilkinson said it is important that people check to see if elderly relatives and neighbours are managing during the cold snap.
“The cold weather can have a major impact on people’s health and wellbeing,” she said. “It can aggravate many conditions, especially if people have asthma or other respiratory conditions.
“I would encourage people check to see if elderly relatives and neighbours are managing when the weather is very cold.”
The Welsh Assembly Government’s annual Keep Well This Winter campaign aims to help people, particularly those who are over 60 or those younger and have chronic conditions, of simple but effective measures to help keep themselves safe and well in the winter months.
“The campaign highlights the importance of wearing several layers of clothing, having regular hot meals and drinks and the need to keep at least one room in the house warm,” said Dr Wilkinson.
“It is particularly important to be very careful when out in icy weather, as pavements and paths can be very slippery.”
Dr Wilkinson also urged patients who are eligible for a flu jab but have not yet done so to contact their GP practice to make an appointment.
