News and events

Knowing where to get the right advice, when we need it, all in one place can make a huge difference when our families are poorly. As a result clinical leaders of health and care services in Hertfordshire and west Essex have created the Hertfordshire and west Essex Healthier Together website which brings together useful information and trusted advice on a range of common childhood illnesses in one place.

The website has up-to-date information, advice and guidance on a number of topics, including

• Childhood vaccinations
• Oral health
• Childhood and teen anxiety
• Asthma
• Infectious diseases, including measles
• Pregnancy and birth, including advice on common concerns during pregnancy and staying healthy in pregnancy

Typically at this time of year we start to see an increase in coughs and colds with infections also on the rise. In preparation for winter, now is a good time for parents and carers to check what vaccines your children and families may need and to take up the offer of the seasonal flu vaccine to protect against serious illness.

For families expecting a baby, knowing how to stay healthy during pregnancy, including getting the RSV vaccination when pregnant, is just one of the ways to protect babies from a serious lung infection.

It can be a worrying time for parents if you have poorly children and you will want to know what symptoms to look out for, get advice on what to do in the first instance and know when you need to call in professional help.

The Healthier Together website advises on the common symptoms of a number of conditions, what steps you should take to treat them at home and when to think about seeking further help.

Professionals also use this website for information to share during appointments.

If you live in Hertfordshire and west Essex please share this website with your own friends and family this autumn and help them get much needed support and advice for their own loved ones when they need it.