Winter health
Take a look at the advice below to prepare yourself this winter to make sure that you and your loved ones stay well.
Pharmacists are experts in medicines and minor ailments. That means that you can drop in for advice and support on things such as coughs, colds and headaches without an appointment. Many pharmacies are in handy locations and are open evenings and weekends. You can find more information about pharmacies and what they can offer here. You can also use the NHS services finder to locate your nearest pharmacy.
It is important to look out for elderly friends, neighbours and vulnerable people and check that they are safe and well through the winter. Make sure they are warm enough (especially at night) and have stocks of food and medicines so they do not need to go out in very cold weather. If you are worried about a relative or elderly neighbour, contact your local council, ring the Age UK helpline on 0800 009966 or contact social services on 01274 431704.
If you do need to visit an NHS service to keep well this winter, find an appropriate service here or use the NHS Symptom Checker which will help determine the right treatment for you.
If you need urgent medical attention but it is not an emergency, call NHS 111. One in four visitors to A&E could be treated elsewhere. Make sure you choose the right service so you get the right help, quickly.
Did you know you can treat many winter illnesses at home with some basic medicines? Having a well-stocked medicine cabinet can make a big difference – make sure you have enough to last until your GP surgery or pharmacy is open again.
Here’s what a well-stocked medicine cabinet should include:
Remember to always follow the advice of your pharmacist, doctor or nurse when taking prescriptions and over the counter medicine. Read instructions carefully and only take the suggested dose.
A cold home can have a big impact on your health. One of the best ways of keeping well is to stay warm, you should:
For more information on grants and making your home warmer, you can see visit Gov.UK for more information on the warm home discount scheme and help with your household energy costs. You can also contact the Warm Homes Healthy People (WHHP) partnership which aims to support those most in need of Winter Warmth services in the Bradford and Airedale area.
Every year, a large number of people die from complications caused by flu – having your flu vaccination is vital. The flu vaccination is offered free of charge to people at risk, pregnant women, carers and some young children. You can find out more about why getting the flu vaccination is so important on the Stay Well This Winter website.
The NHS Stay Well website has lots of further information to help you and your family stay well over the winter in cold weather.