Coronavirus – Reducing your Risk

This page contains information and links to resources on how you could reduce the risk of contracting Coronavirus, and also information on ways to help you reduce the severity of symptoms should you contract Coronavirus.

Whilst we cannot guarantee that your symptoms will be less severe, there is growing evidence that a healthy BMI and respiratory system, along with overall wellbeing, are contributory factors in reducing your risk*.

Top 4 Things

  • Wash your hands

www.nhs.uk/live-well/healthy-body/best-way-to-wash-your-hands

  • Social distancing

www.gov.uk/government/publications/staying-safe-outside-your-home/staying-safe-outside-your-home

  • Wear a mask

www.gov.uk/government/publications/face-coverings-when-to-wear-one-and-how-to-make-your-own/face-coverings-when-to-wear-one-and-how-to-make-your-own

  • Get tested if you have symptoms

www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/testing-and-tracing/get-a-test-to-check-if-you-have-coronavirus

Better Health Campaign

The Better Health Campaign is recently launched government programme that can help with weight loss and increased activity

You can also self-refer to the Lifestyle hub for support with weight loss and exercise here

The NHS BMI calculator can be used to help you monitor your progress

The Couch to 5K programme can be accessed here

If you have already completed the Couch to 5K programme, you can find tips on how to continue and stay motivated here

The charity Caraline offers support to people living with eating disorders. You can self-refer to the service here

Stop Smoking

The stop smoking service offers specialist help and support, along with the option for Stop Smoking medication

Mental Health

Every Mind Matters has expert advice and practical tips to help you look after your mental health and wellbeing, and addresses the challenges we all face with Coronavirus

You can self-refer to the Bedfordshire Wellbeing Service here

Kooth is a free, safe and anonymous online chat service which is available to young people aged 11 to 25

Samaritans offer a safe place for you to talk any time you like, in your own way – about whatever’s getting to you. You don’t have to be suicidal. Call Samaritans free, 24 hours a day 365 days a year on 116123

Sleep

There is lots of help around sleep on Every Mind matters

Sleepstation is a clinically validated sleep improvement programme that can help you sleep better after just 4 sessions. Some options are available on the NHS

Flu Vaccinations

If you are eligible, you should have the flu vaccination. Whilst this does not protect you from Coronavirus, it will give you some immunity from flu, which like Coronavirus, is predominantly a respiratory illness

*source: www.gov.uk/government/news/excess-weight-can-increase-risk-of-serious-illness-and-death-from-covid-19