Kent and Medway will be covered by a yellow Cold-Health Alert over the next week as more settled but chillier weather returns to the UK.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) and Met Office guidance signals vulnerable people including the elderly, very young, pregnant mums, and anyone with long-term health conditions, are at increased risk of falling ill - and potentially needing NHS services.
Initially set to be in force from 9am, Saturday (6th January) to midday, Tuesday (9th January), the alert has since been extended to Friday (12th January), with daytime temperatures expected to remain in low single figures over the coming seven days.
Nights could also dip below freezing, with possible morning frosts and already saturated ground turning icy.
Given this, residents are asked to check in on vulnerable family, friends and neighbours to make sure they keep safe and follow practical advice.
“Heating one room to at least 18°c, having hot food and drinks and getting the free seasonal vaccines on offer if eligible can all help protect against illness brought on by the cold”
Dr Anjan GhoshKent County Council Director of Public Health
Kent County Council (KCC) Director of Public Health, Dr Anjan Ghosh, said: “Staying warm and well during cold spells is important for everyone, but particularly for people who are more susceptible to low temperatures.
“Given the sometimes delayed impacts of cold weather on our health, please keep looking out for the vulnerable people in your life, including our older residents, the very young, anyone with heart and respiratory conditions or poor mental health – and follow commonsense advice. If you are struggling, please visit kent.gov to find out what help is available.
“Heating one room to at least 18°c, having hot food and drinks and getting the free seasonal vaccines on offer if eligible can all help protect against illness brought on by the cold – reducing the need for NHS treatment or trip to busy A&E.”
“If you do need NHS help, NHS 111, online or via phone, is there for you and we list all pharmacies and urgent treatment centres at www.stopthinkchoose.co.uk”
Kate LangfordChief Medical Officer at NHS Kent and Medway
Note: for updates about this Cold-Health alert go directly to the KCC news page here: Forecast cold snap triggers extended health alert for vulnerable residents - News & Features - Kent County Council
Visit Kent Resilience Forum's Get Winter Prepared campaign pages: Get Winter Prepared campaign | Kent Prepared