AN amber cold health alert has been issued for parts of England.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has warned that the dip in temperature could increase the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and chest infections.
Map reveals where is England is affected by cold health alerts
It comes as snow has fallen in parts of the UK, as the country braces for a week-long cold spell.
The Met Office and UKHSA say the North West of England, West Midlands, East Midlands, South West and the South East will experience chillier conditions from today until 12pm on January 12.
Vulnerable people, including those aged 65 plus and Brits with underlying health conditions, are most at risk.
“But impacts may also be seen in younger age groups,” the warning added.
Hospitals and GP surgeries will “likely” be busier than normal for an “extended” period as demand increases, which can have a knock-on effect on the “whole population.”
Temperatures inside hospitals and care homes may fall below the recommended threshold.
Travel delays, transport issues and energy problems could also trigger staffing problems, putting lives at risk, the UKHSA said.
Dr Agostinho Sousa, of the UKHSA, stressed the importance of checking on those who could be vulnerable.
She said: “Cold weather can increase the risks of heart attacks, strokes, and chest infections so that it can have a serious impact on health, particularly for older people and those with pre-existing health conditions.
“Temperatures are expected to turn particularly cold overnight, as expected at this time of year.
“If you have a pre-existing medical condition or are over 65, it is important to try and heat the rooms where you spend most of your time, such as your living room or bedroom, in the coming days.”
Temperatures are expected to drop heavily on Monday (today) night.
The Met Office said parts of England and Wales could reach -4C, while northern Scotland could see temperatures as low as -7C.
It comes after Storm Henk claimed its second victim, when a woman and man were killed in separate crashes on Tuesday.
Yellow alerts, which cover the North East, East of England and London are valid for the same period.
This means “significant impacts are possible across the health and social care sector due to forecast weather conditions”.
LNPVulnerable people and Brits with underlying health conditions are most at risk from the cold weather[/caption]
LNPTemperatures are expected to drop heavily on tonight[/caption]
How to keep warm at home
YOU should heat your home to a temperature that is comfortable for you.
Low indoor temperatures can have a serious impact on your health, especially if you have medical conditions or are older.
Simple changes can help to keep you and your home warm:
Try to heat rooms you spend a lot of time in, such as the living room or bedroom, to at least 18C
Try to reduce draughts; you can fit draft excluders around doors cheaply
Keep your bedroom windows closed at night
Wear several layers of thinner clothing; this could keep you warmer than one thicker layer.
You should also try not to sit still for more than an hour or so and stretch your limbs regularly.
It is also important to get vaccinated to help reduce your risk of respiratory illnesses, to treat minor ailments like sore throats and colds quickly, and to call NHS 111 or 999 in an emergency if you need to.
Source: UKHSA