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There are a number of ways that you can aid your immune system to stay healthy this winter.
Flu vaccine, to help protect against flu, which can be a serious or life-threatening illness. It is offered on the NHS every year in autumn or early winter to people at higher risk of getting seriously ill from flu.
- Vitamins and probiotics can help boost your immune system
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids
- Maintain a healthy diet
- Avoid people who may be ill
- Practice good hand hygiene
Click here to discover how you can keep your eyes healthy this winter.
Who should have the flu vaccine
The flu vaccine is not needed by everyone, but it is recommended for people at higher risk of getting seriously ill from flu.
You can get the free NHS flu vaccine if you:
- Are aged 65 or over (including those who will be 65 by 31 March 2025)
- Have certain long-term health conditions
- Are pregnant
- Live in a care home
- Are the main carer for an older or disabled person, or receive a carer’s allowance
- Live with someone who has a weakened immune system
Learn more about the flu vaccine, and book your appointment
Getting the COVID-19 vaccine can:
The Covid vaccine can help protect you against COVID-19, which can be a serious or life-threatening illness. It is offered on the NHS to people at increased risk of getting seriously ill.
- Help reduce your risk of getting severe symptoms
- Help you recover more quickly if you catch it
- Help reduce your risk of having to go to hospital or dying from it
- Protect against different variants of the virus
If you are eligible for the winter COVID-19 vaccine, you can:
Learn more about the COVID-19 vaccination.
What should you do if you are feeling unwell this winter?
If you’re feeling unwell this winter, your first point of call should be to speak to a pharmacist, if they’re unable to assist, you should book an appointment Alternatively, you can call 111 to receive urgent medical advice
Visit your GP
Call 111
In the case of an emergency, visit your local A&E.