The cold snap may have passed us – for the moment – but February’s wintry weather means you should still be thinking of how to safeguard your own health and wellbeing.

Keeping warm over the winter can help prevent colds, flu and more serious health problems such as heart attacks, strokes, pneumonia and depression.

Firstly, if you are eligible NHS Sussex is urging you to get the flu vaccine.

You are also asked to treat winter and seasonal viruses in the warmth and comfort of your own homes and try to avoid visiting hospitals or vulnerable relatives if However, we appreciate that keeping your home warm is getting harder, so for help and advice on staying warm this winter visit our Cost of Living page.

And please look out for friends and family who may be vulnerable to the cold, ensure they have access to warm food and drinks, can heat their homes adequately and have any prescription medicines they need.

Tips for staying well during low temperatures include:

• Don’t delay treating minor winter ailments like colds or sore throats. People can visit their local pharmacist for advice and treatment.
• Try to maintain indoor temperatures to at least 18°C, particularly if you’re not mobile, have a long-term illness or are 65 or over.
• Wear shoes with good grip when outside to avoid slips and falls on slippery or icy surfaces.

And don’t forget, you can sign up for free Cold Alerts to make sure you’re prepared for any cold snaps during February.