Essential Precautions for Cold Weather: Protecting Your Health This Winter
Guidelines from the Centre for Health Protection on keeping vulnerable groups safe during cold spells.
The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health has issued important reminders for the public, especially the elderly and those with chronic illnesses, to take necessary precautions in cold weather.
Cold conditions can trigger or worsen diseases, notably impacting the elderly and individuals with chronic heart or respiratory conditions.
Elderly individuals have reduced insulating fat and weaker temperature control, making them more vulnerable.
Chronic illnesses can further hinder their body's heat production.
The CHP advises everyone, particularly older adults and those with chronic conditions, to stay informed of weather forecasts, wear appropriate warm clothing, maintain a nutritious diet, engage in regular exercise, stay indoors in a warm environment, and use heaters safely while ensuring good ventilation.
Medical advice should be sought if feeling unwell, and alcohol is discouraged as it accelerates heat loss.
Parents are advised to keep babies warm but not overheated, ensuring good room ventilation and safe sleeping practices, such as placing infants on their backs without pillows or soft bedding.
A smoke-free environment is essential.
Winter also sees increased activity of respiratory pathogens like influenza and COVID-19.
Seasonal flu vaccinations are advised for everyone over six months of age, especially high-risk groups like the elderly and children.
Vaccinations against COVID-19 are urged for the elderly, particularly those in care homes.
Personal and environmental hygiene practices such as wearing masks, proper handwashing, and safe respiratory practices are crucial to prevent transmission of illnesses.
Food-borne diseases, common with winter cuisines like hotpot, require careful food handling.
Observing proper hygiene, thoroughly cooking food, and preventing cross-contamination are key.
Additionally, proper ventilation when using fuel-burning appliances indoors is vital to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
For more information, the public is encouraged to visit CHP's website or contact their infoline.
Weather updates can be accessed via Dial-a-Weather or the Hong Kong Observatory's resources.
Stay warm and healthy this cold season with these comprehensive preventive measures from the CHP.
Cold conditions can trigger or worsen diseases, notably impacting the elderly and individuals with chronic heart or respiratory conditions.
Elderly individuals have reduced insulating fat and weaker temperature control, making them more vulnerable.
Chronic illnesses can further hinder their body's heat production.
The CHP advises everyone, particularly older adults and those with chronic conditions, to stay informed of weather forecasts, wear appropriate warm clothing, maintain a nutritious diet, engage in regular exercise, stay indoors in a warm environment, and use heaters safely while ensuring good ventilation.
Medical advice should be sought if feeling unwell, and alcohol is discouraged as it accelerates heat loss.
Parents are advised to keep babies warm but not overheated, ensuring good room ventilation and safe sleeping practices, such as placing infants on their backs without pillows or soft bedding.
A smoke-free environment is essential.
Winter also sees increased activity of respiratory pathogens like influenza and COVID-19.
Seasonal flu vaccinations are advised for everyone over six months of age, especially high-risk groups like the elderly and children.
Vaccinations against COVID-19 are urged for the elderly, particularly those in care homes.
Personal and environmental hygiene practices such as wearing masks, proper handwashing, and safe respiratory practices are crucial to prevent transmission of illnesses.
Food-borne diseases, common with winter cuisines like hotpot, require careful food handling.
Observing proper hygiene, thoroughly cooking food, and preventing cross-contamination are key.
Additionally, proper ventilation when using fuel-burning appliances indoors is vital to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
For more information, the public is encouraged to visit CHP's website or contact their infoline.
Weather updates can be accessed via Dial-a-Weather or the Hong Kong Observatory's resources.
Stay warm and healthy this cold season with these comprehensive preventive measures from the CHP.
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