SOMERSET’S public health leaders and family doctors are advising the elderly and people living with long-term conditions to keep warm in order to keep well this winter.

Cold weather can make some health problems worse and even lead to serious complications, especially for those over 65 or with a long-term condition, or who live alone or with a disability or mental health condition.

Dr Ed Ford, Minehead GP and chairman of Somerset Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG), said: “In order to keep well this winter, please make sure to stay warm.

“If going outside, make sure to dress appropriately and wear lots of layers. If indoors, make sure the heating is kept to the right temperature – heating the home to at least 18°C in winter poses minimal risk to health when wearing suitable clothing.

“Having regular hot drinks and meals can also help.”

He appealed to neighbours of people at risk, such as the elderly or disabled living alone, to check in on them at regular intervals and make sure they know what to do to stay warm and well, and their home is well stocked with food and medications.

And he issued a reminder that the local pharmacist can give treatment advice for a range of minor illnesses: “They will also tell you if you need to see a doctor.

“So see a pharmacist at the first sign of a winter illness, even if it’s just a cough or a cold.”

Anyone who is worried about their own health or that of somebody else and can ring NHS 111.

Cllr Christine Lawrence, Somerset County Council’s cabinet member for public health and wellbeing, said: “Cold weather can affect both physical and mental health, and severe cold snaps can have dramatic effects on everyday life, especially for people who are already vulnerable because of their age, illness or disability.

“A good way to protect against illness is to make sure to have the flu jab this year – its free for over 65s, people living in a care or residential home, pregnant women and people living with a long term condition. Just ask at the local pharmacy or GP practice for further advice.”