A CAMPAIGN to help people Keep Well This Winter has been launched at St David's Park Hotel, Ewloe, by Welsh Assembly Health Minister Dr Brian Gibbons.

Dr Gibbons said: 'Every winter hundreds of people suffer serious illness or die because of lack of adequate preparation and care.

'I'm particularly keen to see older people and those younger people in at-risk groups have their flu vaccination as this can provide important protection against an illness that can have serious consequences for vulnerable people.

'This year we are aiming for an uptake rate of at least 70% among older people, and I know that Local Health Boards and family doctors will be working to achieve this target.'

The winter campaign has three main themes:

Keep Well - through having a flu jab, healthy eating and taking appropriate exercise.

Keep Warm - through energy-efficiency measures and, if eligible, taking advantage of Home Energy Efficiency Scheme grants.

Keep Safe - through home adaptations to reduce hazards, electric blanket testing.

Assembly Deputy Health Minister John Griffiths, who has responsibility for Older People, said: 'Keep Well This Winter fits well with the aims of the Assembly Government's Strategy for Older People in Wales and with the Health Promotion Action Plan for Older People by helping them stay fit, active and independent.'