Health experts have issued an urgent warning as certain people are at high risk of heart attacks and strokes this weekend due to cold temperatures. The (UKHSA) has issued an amber cold health alert for all regions of England.
Due to plummeting temperatures, people aged 65 and over are particularly vulnerable to heart attacks, stroke, and chest infections, the health body said.
Expected low temperatures are also likely to result in increased use of health care services by vulnerable people.
Those with pre-existing health conditions such as respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, as well as rough sleepers, are most at high risk.
UKHSA has published guidance for professionals protecting vulnerable people and for the public on staying safe during periods of cold weather.
The UKHSA has warned people aged 65 and over could be particularly vulnerable to cold weather (Image: Getty)
Dr Agostinho Sousa, head of extreme events and health protection at UKHSA, explained: “The forecasted temperatures can have a serious impact on the health of some people, including those aged 65 and over and those with pre-existing health conditions, and it is therefore vital to check in on friends, family and neighbours that are most vulnerable.
“These people could be more at risk of heart attacks, stroke and chest infections as a result of cold temperatures.” The amber cold health alert was issued for all regions of England from January 2 until 12pm on January 8.
All regions had previously been under a yellow cold health alert. As per the cold health alert system introduced by UKHSA and the , an amber alert means that cold weather impacts are likely to be felt across the whole health service for an extended period of time.
There is potential for the whole population to be at risk and where other sectors may also start to observe impacts, indicating a coordinated response is required. This comes as the has issued a yellow weather warning for snow and ice across parts of the UK.
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On Saturday this is expected to affect most of England, while on Sunday it is also expected to affect Scotland. On its website, the said: “Heavy snow, and some freezing rain in places, may cause some disruption over the weekend.”
It warned that this could mean:
- There is a small chance that power cuts will occur and other services, such as mobile phone coverage, may be affected
- There is a slight chance that some rural communities could become cut off
- A small chance of injuries from slips and falls on icy surfaces
- There is a chance of travel delays on roads with some stranded vehicles and passengers, along with delayed or cancelled rail and air travel.
If you’re a vulnerable person, the recommends the following steps to stay healthy in cold weather:
- Heat your home to at least 18C (65F). You might prefer your main living room to be slightly warmer
- Keep your bedroom window closed on winter nights. Breathing cold air can be bad for your health as it increases the risk of chest infections
- Keep active when you’re indoors. Try not to sit still for more than an hour or so
- Wear several layers of light clothes. Several layers trap warm air better than one bulky layer
- Food is a vital source of energy and helps to keep your body warm so have plenty of hot food and drinks
- Keeping well will allow you to do more and keep your independence. Being cold isn’t just uncomfortable it can be bad for your health. Sitting or sleeping in a cold room is not good for you and increases the risk of heart attacks, stroke and breathing problems
- Don’t let the cold catch you out, check the weather forecast and be ready for cold weather
- Wear shoes with a good grip to prevent slips and falls
- Make sure you have spare medication in case you are unable to go out.