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Wear lightweight, loose, light-coloured clothing and a wide-brimmed hat.
Drink plenty of cold fluids, but not alcohol or caffeine, which dehydrate the
body.
If driving, keep your vehicle ventilated to avoid drowsiness. Take regular
breaks and have plenty of water in the vehicle.
Try to avoid going out during the hottest part of the day
(11.00am - 3.00pm).
Avoid being in the sun for long periods of time.
The elderly and very young are most at risk. If you have elderly neighbours
check on them daily.
Avoid excessive physical activity (it can cause heat stroke or heat
exhaustion), or do it in the cooler ends of the day.
Ensure that babies, children, elderly people or animals are not left alone in
stationary cars.
Be alert and call the health services if someone is unwell or further help is
needed.
Infectious diseases
There are a number of infectious diseases that may lead to localised, national or
even international outbreaks if they are not rapidly controlled. Some of these
diseases include Pandemic Influenza, Norovirus (sickness and diarrhoea), Measles
and Tuberculosis. Many diseases are not common due to previous vaccination
programmes but there is a risk that they may return or a new disease may
develop. As a result everyone needs to be prepared to listen to medical advice
and take the appropriate action.
You can reduce the risk of catching or spreading any infectious disease by:
Covering your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing - use a tissue.
Disposing of dirty tissues promptly and carefully - bag and bin them.
Maintaining good basic hygiene, for example washing your hands frequently
with soap and water to reduce the spread of the virus from your hands to
your face or to other people.
Cleaning hard surfaces (e.g. kitchen worktops, door handles) frequently,
using a normal cleaning product.
If you are worried about any illness then, unless otherwise directed, you should
contact your GP or NHS Direct on 0845 4647 or go to the NHS Choices website
at
www.nhs.uk.