Hywel Dda Health University Board has published an online Winter Plan

Staff in Hywel Dda University Health Board, from those working in main and community hospitals, to those visiting patients at home or seeing them in community facilities such as pharmacies, expect to be kept very busy helping sick patients this winter.

The organisation has worked with the Welsh Ambulance Services NHS Trust, local authorities and the third sector to prepare for the busy period ahead with a Winter Plan.

This is published on the health board’s website and sets out how the organisation is preparing to run services as smoothly as possible to ensure patients’ needs continue to be met 24 hours a day.

Director of Public Health Teresa Owen said: “It’s really important both for us as an organisation, and for people in our communities, to prepare themselves for winter before it arrives.

“One of the most effective things you can do to protect your own health, and that of others in the community, is to get the influenza vaccination.

"This is especially important for those in one of the high risk groups including everyone aged 65 and over, people with certain chronic long term health conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease or chronic respiratory disease, and pregnant women.”

Most NHS flu vaccines are given in GP surgeries, but it is also available in some community pharmacies across Wales, and if you are pregnant you can speak to your midwife.

Dipping temperatures can have a significant impact on people’s health and one of the best ways of keeping yourself well during the winter is to stay warm. This can include keeping your home heated to at least 18C if you are aged 65 or over, or living with a health condition.

There is also a wealth of useful information for members of the public on the Winter Wise webpage hywelddahb.wales.nhs.uk/winterwise including how to get your flu jab and protect yourself and your community against the serious risk of influenza.