With forecasters predicting another cold winter, now’s the time to prepare so you can protect yourself against the effects of the season.

Hand hygiene: Simple hygiene measures can reduce the risk of catching and spreading infections. Use the ‘catch it, bin it, kill it’ motto, and wash your hands with soap and water where possible or use a hand sanitizer.

Have a seasonal flu jab: Flu is very infectious and can spread rapidly - in the worst cases it can result in a stay in hospital, or even death. You are more at risk of contracting the flu virus if you have a long-term health condition, are older, or are pregnant. Protect yourself by having a seasonal flu jab.

Stay warm: Not only does staying warm help reduce the winter blues, but cold homes also have an impact on health. You should aim to keep your main living room between 18-21C and the rest of the house at no less than 16C. Outside of the home, wear lots of thin layers - clothes made of cotton, wool or fleecy fibres are good at insulating your body.

Eat healthily: Eating regular, healthy meals will boost your mood and give you more energy. Have a good mix of carbohydrates, dairy products and fruit and vegetables each day.

Stay active: Exercising is good for overall wellbeing as it helps to control weight and boost your immune system, but in winter it can help to keep you warm too. Going outside in daylight, especially on bright days or at midday, may also help prevent the winter blues.

Choose well

If you do fall ill this winter, remember to choose the NHS service which is right for your problem. Hospital Emergency Departments are for life-threatening and emergency conditions - other illnesses and injuries can be sorted by a range of other NHS services.

• If you are unsure about your symptoms or need advice contact NHS Direct on 0845 4647 or online at www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk.

• Local pharmacists can offer help and advice about many types of illnesses.

• Familiarise yourself with the opening hours of your GP surgery and any out-of-hours services it offers.

• Use the walk-in centre at Boscombe and Springbourne Health Centre, located at 66-68 Palmerston Road, Boscombe, BH1 4JT, from 8am-8pm on weekends.

• If you have trouble breathing, have pain in your chest, suspect a stroke or similar urgent health problems you should call 999 or visit your Emergency Department.

For details visit www.nhs.uk/Livewell or www.choosewell.org.uk