New cold weather plans launched by Public Health England

The government has announced the launch of its new cold weather plan, which outlines practical measures to minimise the risk to health caused by the winter climate.

Published by Public Health England, the Local Government Association and NHS England, it offers advice that people can take to stay healthy before and during the winter, bearing in mind that more than 25,000 excess deaths are recorded in England each winter on average.

Precautions include considering how homes can be better insulated and kept warm, making sure heating systems are routinely checked and encouraging those eligible for a flu jab to receive it.

A Public Health England Winter Health Watch website will also launch in early November and to bring together weekly monitoring data on winter-related illnesses and deaths.

Jane Ellison, public health minister, said: "The NHS is well prepared for winter, but whether it's getting a flu jab or staying warm at home, we want to help people stay healthy and avoid unnecessary hospital visits."

The government provided additional funding to ensure the NHS had the necessary capacity to care for vulnerable patients last winter, highlighting the heightened health risks that prevail during the colder months.