WE would like to remind people to look after themselves and others during colder weather.

Some people are more vulnerable to becoming poorly in the colder months, including those with long-term conditions like diabetes and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

These people are more susceptible to winter illness like coughs and colds, which can quickly turn into more worrying health conditions.

The advice is to nip common health complaints in the bud before they develop into something more serious and potentially end up needing treatment in hospital.

It’s surprising how quickly something like a cough or cold can turn into a serious health condition, especially for people who are vulnerable to becoming ill over the winter months.

If you’re in an at-risk group, it’s really important to have your flu jab. Anyone in this group is more likely to suffer potentially serious complications from flu and the vaccine offers the best protection.

If you’re not very mobile, are 65 or over, or have a health condition, such as heart or lung disease, heat your home to at least 18C (65F) if you can to help keep warm and well at home.

For more advice on staying well this winter, visit the stay well website.

PAUL TWOMEY Medical Director for NHS England in Yorkshire and the Humber