Health Minister launches winter warmth campaign

The Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety, Bairbre de Brún, has launched the 2001/2002 Keep Warm Keep Well campaign.

Speaking at a function in Belfast City Hall on Thursday October 25, the Minister stressed that everyone in the community should be aware of the dangers that winter can bring. She said: “There is no doubt that lower temperatures contribute to an increase in health problems. Severe weather conditions can also mean a rise in respiratory conditions, hypothermia and falls. Older people are not the only people who may be affected, children under 5 and people who are disabled or suffer from a chronic illness, are also at risk.”

The Minister emphasised that advice and information on any aspect of keeping warm and fuel poverty was available through a free phone advice service operated by Help the Aged. Information was also available from Health and Social Services Trusts who would be undertaking local campaigns to help people cope with problems over the winter months.

Ms de Brún called on those at risk to help themselves by getting the flu vaccine available from their GPs: “Last year over two thirds of older people here availed of the flu vaccine and I would like to see that number increased this year.” (AMcE)