VULNERABLE and elderly relatives need to be checked on regularly over the winter, Essex GPs have urged as temperatures drop across the county.

Ensuring relatives, friends, and neighbours have working heating and are aware of the dangers of the cold is one such measure practitioners have urged members of the public to take, as well as having a conversation with people who are lonely.

Dr Farrukh Shamshad, a GP at the Ranworth Surgery in Clacton, said: “As we enter the winter months now is the time to start planning for those times when it may be too inclement to leave the house, such as by having a few days’ supply of food and keeping a supply of the medicine cabinet essentials to best deal with minor illness and injury.

“This is a good time for family members to designate who will regularly check in on relatives who use prescription medicine so they don’t run out of their supply, in case they can’t get outside.”

The Clacton GP added by encouraging people to get Covid and flu vaccinations to boost their immunity over the following months.

He said: “I would urge too, for everyone eligible to get their flu and Covid vaccinations.

"Ask those older and vulnerable relatives and neighbours if they have had theirs, and if not, encourage them to take up the offer to best protect their health.”