The winter weather has an impact on our health, illnesses such as respiratory viruses and norovirus stomach bugs are more common in the winter and can be spread easily.
If you, or your family, does get ill there are a number of services that can help.
Dr David Crichton, GP and Chief Medical Officer at NHS South Yorkshire, said: “It can be worrying when you or someone you care for is ill. There is a wealth of information and advice to help you make the right decision to get seen quickly by the most appropriate health care professional.”
If you are worried about your own, or someone else’s health, and are not sure what service is needed, use NHS 111 either online at https://111.nhs.uk/ or via the telephone 111. A trained advisor will assess your symptoms, decide what medical help you need and advise where you need to go. They can direct you to the right service or book an out of hours GP appointment if you need it.
If the health condition isn’t an emergency, you can visit your local pharmacist for expert health advice and guidance. Pharmacists are trained professionals who can offer advice and treatment on a range of illnesses and ailments. Most pharmacies have a quiet area where you can speak in private, and many are open during the evenings and weekends, without an appointment.
Most can now also prescribe medication such as antibiotics or antivirals, for seven common conditions through the Pharmacy First scheme. There are many pharmacies in South Yorkshire open over the Christmas period, including on Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Years Day – you can find the details here Pharmacy opening times - Christmas 2024 :: South Yorkshire I.C.B.
If you think you or your child needs to see a GP, nurse or other health professional, speak to your GP practice. The care navigator or receptionist will ask about your symptoms to book you an appointment with the right health care professional in the practice. You won’t always need to see a GP and may be offered an appointment with another professional such as nurse or a physiotherapist depending on your ailment.
Dr Crichton added: “A range of common winter illnesses and injuries get better on their own and can be treated at home simply by combining medicines you already have at home with plenty of rest and time. If you are eligible for, Flu, Covid-19, RSV or Pneumonia vaccines, I would encourage you to join me and millions of other people and get your vaccinations as soon as possible after being contacted to ensure you and your loved ones stay protected during the colder months.”
Children, pregnant women, older people, and those with a weakened immune system can protect themselves from more serious conditions by having their winter and routine vaccinations. Find out more and who is eligible here.
You can dramatically reduce the risk of getting ill and spreading viruses by them to wash their hands regularly, especially after going to the toilet or after coughing and sneezing.
For more information about health services available in your area, and staying well this winter, please see here Be Winter Well :: South Yorkshire I.C.B.