Like many people I’ve been feeling under the weather lately.

There are lots of bugs going around and you’ve probably been unwell or know someone who has.

We are also aware of the new coronavirus which is impacting hugely on the Chinese people.

We all have a role in stopping the spread of germs and viruses and a simple way we can help to protect ourselves and others is by following the message ‘catch it, bin it, kill it’.

Germs can live on surfaces for hours so always use a tissue to ‘catch’ your cough or sneeze. ‘Bin’ the tissue and wash your hands with soap and water, or use a hand sanitiser, to ‘kill’ the germs.

We may not think about how we wash our hands but doing it properly doesn’t take long.

You can find a guide at www.nhs.uk/live-well/healthy-body/best-way-to-wash-your-hands/.

Remember to also wash your hands after going to the loo, before and after handling raw foods like meat and vegetables and before eating or handling food in general.

Do the same before and after treating a cut or wound – and after

touching animals, their food and cleaning their cages.

Another way to protect others is by not visiting sick relatives in hospital when we are ill and staying away from places like care homes.

And it’s not too late to get a flu jab - not only are you protecting yourself from serious illness, but also people who may not be as healthy or strong enough to fight off the virus.

The vaccine is free for people in ‘at risk groups’ and remember children can have a painless nasal spray.

Find out more at www.boltonccg.nhs.uk/patient-zone/flu-facts-and-how-to-protect-yourself

The NHS is prepared to deal with coronavirus but we can all do our bit to help stop the spread of all types of germs.