Brits have been issued a reminder about a 20-second hygiene measure to help curb the transmission of COVID-19. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has released guidance encouraging the public to adopt some "simple" cleanliness habits.

The guidance arrives as the UKHSA stressed that now is the "ideal time" to exercise caution. Writing on social media platform X, the health body stated: "Winter brings more than just festive cheer – respiratory illnesses like flu and COVID-19 also peak during colder months."

The Government website said: "As we brace ourselves for chillier days and look forward to more indoor gatherings and seasonal social events with friends and family, now is the ideal time to remind ourselves of guidance on vaccination, isolation, good respiratory etiquette, mask wearing, and other behaviours that can reduce the spread of respiratory infections known to peak during the autumn and winter period.

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"The early start to the current flu season and the emergence of the drifted influenza A(H3N2) strain has caused some concern." The agency proceeded to outline some simple methods for maintaining safety.

It stated: "Here is a list of simple actions you can take to reduce the spread of COVID-19 and other respiratory infections, and protect those at highest risk." The guidance included the recommendation to "wash your hands frequently with warm, soapy water for 20 seconds".

Additional measures included:

• Get vaccinated if you are eligible


• If you are feeling unwell, stay at home


• Let fresh air in if meeting others indoors


• Cough into your bent elbow, or use a tissue and dispose of it afterwards in the nearest bin


• Clean your surroundings often, especially areas that are touched frequently such as door handles

It also recommended wearing a mask in two scenarios:

• When you are coming into close contact with someone at higher risk of becoming seriously unwell from a respiratory infection


• When there are a lot of respiratory viruses circulating, and you will be in close contact with other people in crowded and enclosed spaces

Certain people qualify for a flu and/or Covid jab. The UKHSA stated: "Early data from UKHSA rapidly assessed how well this season's flu vaccines are working.

"This showed the flu vaccines are providing good protection against hospitalisation in children and adults. There are currently no changes to the advice on what to do if you have, or think you may have COVID-19, influenza (flu) or any other respiratory infection.

"Vaccines help protect those most vulnerable from developing serious illness and being hospitalized and we strongly encourage all those eligible to get vaccinated against flu as soon as possible - vaccines remain our best defence."

You may be entitled to an NHS flu vaccine if you: You are eligible for the flu vaccine if you:

• Are 65 years old or above (including those turning 65 by 31 March 2026)


• Suffer from certain chronic health conditions


• Are pregnant


• Reside in a care home


• Are the primary caregiver for an elderly or disabled individual, or receive a carer's allowance


• Live with someone who has a compromised immune system

Frontline healthcare and social care workers can also avail of the flu vaccine through their employers.

The winter COVID-19 vaccine is available to you if you:

• Are 75 years old or above (including those turning 75 by 31 January 2026)


• Are between six months and 74 years old and have a weakened immune system due to a health condition or treatment


• Reside in a care home for older adults

For additional information on the vaccines, please visit the NHS website here.