A yellow Cold-Health Alert is now in place for the South East, including Kent, as wintry weather sweeps across the UK.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) and Met Office guidance currently remains in force until 12pm, Tuesday (5th December), with daytime temperatures stuck in single figures, freezing nights and rain falling on chilly ground causing icy conditions.
A yellow Cold-Health Alert means vulnerable people including the elderly, very young, pregnant mums, and people with long-term health conditions, are at increased risk of falling ill and potentially needing NHS services.
Given this, residents are asked to check in on vulnerable family, friends and neighbours to make sure they keep safe and follow practical advice.
The guidance is the first Cold-Health Alert issued under UKHSA's Adverse Weather and Health Plan which was rolled out nationally in spring.
“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 (KCC) Director of Public Health
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, such as heart attacks and strokes – reducing the need for NHS treatment or trip to 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 LangfordNHS Kent and Medway Chief Medical Officer
Kate Langford, Chief Medical Officer at NHS Kent and Medway, said: “Prolonged cold weather can be a risk for anyone, but those who are vulnerable, including elderly people, those with breathing difficulties, and children under five, are particularly at risk.
"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.”
Note: for updates about this Cold-Health alert go directly to the KCC news page here: Look out for others as winter arrives - News & Features - Kent County Council
Visit Kent Resileince Forum's Get Winter Prepared campaign pages: Get Winter Prepared campaign | Kent Prepared
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