Millions of UK households warned ‘don’t sit still over one hour’ on Monday

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued guidance on staying warm and well this winter, warning that anyone can become ill if they get too cold.

New weather maps from WXCharts show temperatures could plunge to as low as 0C on Monday morning in parts of northern England and Scotland, 2C around Manchester and Liverpool, 4C in the Midlands and 6C in Lodnon,

Some people are at higher risk of becoming seriously unwell because of exposure to cold, the UKHSA adds. People over 65, those with long-term health conditions, pregnant women, and young children are among the list of individuals who are particularly at risk.

Getting vaccinated will help reduce the risk of respiratory illnesses during the winter, especially against the flu and Covid-19. Government guidance also suggests thatshould treat minor winter ailments like colds or sore throats promptly, suggesting the use of pharmacies for treatment.

When indoors during the colder seasons, there are things you can do that will help to keep you warm and reduce the risk of developing medical problems.

The UKHSA advises individuals to “try not to sit still for more than an hour or so”, but if you find it difficult to move about, “stretching your arms and legs can also help keep you warm”.

If you have visitors, the guidance also suggests it can help stop the spread of germs to ventilate the room for a few minutes before and after they arrive.

Keeping your house warm is one simple way to stay healthy and comfortable this winter. The advice offers simple tips to do this including keeping your bedroom windows shut at night,

Wear several layers of thinner clothing, reduce draughts, and keep the temperature of the rooms you use to at least 18C.

When a house is damp as well as cold, mold is more likely to occur. This can increase the risk of illness, especially from asthma.

On the list of tips to stay warm and well this winter, longer term improvements to your house are recommended to greatly improve your comfort. However, these can be expensive.

Depending on affordability, options include: regular servicing of your heating appliances, insulation for water pipes to prevent them from freezing in cold weather, loft insulation, wall insulation and double (or triple) window glazing.

Those facing financial difficulty may find it more difficult to heat their homes sufficiently. The UKHSAs advice states there are grants, benefits and sources of advice available to help you make your home more energy efficient, improve your heating or help manage energy bills.