How to stay healthy this winter

With night time temperatures expected to drop, the Department of Health is reminding people of the risks associated with cold weather.

Chief Health Officer Dr Tarun Weeramanthri said it was important Western Australians took appropriate measures to look after themselves and their friends and family.

“The elderly, people with a serious illness, young children and babies are more vulnerable than others when the temperatures drop,” Dr Weeramanthri said.

“It is important that these particular groups stay warm and hydrated throughout the winter months.”

Dr Weeramanthri said winter often brought new health challenges such as an increase in colds and flu, and a tendency to eat more and exercise less.

“People often feel sluggish and less social during winter but it’s important to make time to get out of the house and enjoy some physical activity,” he said.

“Staying active and maintaining a healthy diet is not only good for general health but it will also help boost your immunity.”

Dr Weeramanthri also reminded people about the importance of keeping hydrated during winter.

“People tend to drink less fluid in winter because they don’t have the hot weather to remind them they are thirsty,” he said.

Dr Weeramanthri said people should consider the following advice to ensure they stayed healthy during the cooler months:

keep hydratedmaintain a balanced diet that is high in fruit and vegetables
keep activemaintain good personal hygiene to prevent the spread of viruses
have regular hot drinks to help maintain a warm body temperature
wear several light layers of warm clothes (rather than one chunky layer)

He also reminded people of the importance of staying at home if unwell with a respiratory virus, rather than going to work and spreading it to others.

(Source: Government of Western Australia, Department of Health)