How does cold weather affect health? Our new report explores the hidden impact
When we talk about winter deaths, we may think of hypothermia or people dying directly from low temperatures. The reality is more complex - and often invisible.
Winter
How to avoid catching flu, COVID-19 and other respiratory illnesses this winter
As we brace ourselves for chillier days and look forward to more indoor gatherings and seasonal social events with friends and family, now is the ideal time to remind ourselves of behaviours that can reduce the spread of respiratory infections …
Do I have flu, COVID-19 or a cold? Know the signs and symptoms
This blog post is an explainer of important information about these winter infections; their signs and symptoms, and information on who is eligible for vaccination.
What winter bug do I have? Know the signs and symptoms
We see cases of flu, RSV, COVID-19 and norovirus throughout the year, but in winter they circulate at the same time and can reach high levels. We also track other respiratory viruses – rhinovirus, adenovirus, human metapneumovirus (hMPV) and parainfluenza …
Increasing transparency in our winter statistics
The winter is a busy time for those working in public health and the health services. This coming winter, there is potential for respiratory or infectious diseases such as COVID-19, flu, RSV and norovirus (the “winter vomiting bug”) to coincide. …
Responding to the challenge of cold weather and winter
The Cold Weather Plan for England outlines actions and advice for reducing preventable cold weather-related deaths and ill-health. This blog explores how the plan meets the challenge posed by cold weather by planning for and responding to cold temperatures.