MORECAMBE Bay Respiratory Network (MBRN) is encouraging people who have long-term respiratory conditions to take precautions to avoid sickness. 

The following tips from the MBRN include: 

  • Have your flu jab  
  • Have your Covid booster 
  • Have an anti-pneumonia vaccine if you have Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), bronchiectasis or pulmonary fibrosis 
  • Stay warm (If you need help with heating costs, you might be entitled to welfare benefits. See our Q&A for more advice) 
  • Avoid contact with people who have symptoms of cold or flu 
  • Keep active  
  • Agree on a care plan with your health care professional.  

Dr Pat Haslam, local GP and joint clinical lead of the MBRN said: “By autumn you should start to think about ways you can keep yourself well during winter if you are living with a long-term respiratory condition.  

 “Cold weather can trigger a flare-up of your symptoms if you have a long-term respiratory condition and make you more vulnerable to illnesses. But there are things you can do to look after your lungs this winter.

“Knowing what to do when your symptoms get worse is very important. Patients with Asthma, COPD and Bronchiectasis should have a self-management plan, make sure you know where yours is."