As the weather gets colder, we all know that winter illnesses like colds and coughs can start to spread more easily. This year, viral illnesses like COVID-19 and flu are likely to spread faster as we all spend more time inside. The best form of defence against these is to get your flu jab and your first, second or booster doses of the COVID-19 vaccine. Your GP should contact you if you are eligible for your booster jab or flu vaccine.

There are lots of options if you’re feeling under the weather, or if you have a minor illness or injury. Remember, A&E isn’t always the best place to get help fast, though it is always available if the situation is an emergency or life-threatening.

In the first instance, call NHS 111 First or visit https://111.nhs.uk/. They can help to triage the problem, and advise whether you should go to hospital, or offer advice to help you treat pain and discomfort at home.

Your local Stockport pharmacy is also a great place to get help for minor injuries or conditions. Pharmacists are clinically trained to deal with all sorts of issues, including aches and pains, and conditions made worse by the cold weather. Pop in to ask for advice this winter.

We can all do our bit to look after ourselves this winter to ensure that our primary care services are not overwhelmed. Make sure you’re stocked up on household medications like paracetamol and cold and flu tablets in case you can’t get out, to help if those winter illnesses do make an appearance.

Exercise and eating well can also make a big difference to your health and wellbeing. Try to have at least one hot, hearty meal a day, and get some exercise, even if it’s just a walk around the block. Wrap up warm though, it’s cold out there! Exercise is not only great for keeping your body healthy, it can also help to improve your mental wellbeing.

Andrew Loughney, Medical Director for Stockport NHS Foundation Trust which runs Stepping Hill Hospital and community NHS services in the area said “Winter is always a busy time of year for our services and the spread of COVID-19 in the area is sure to add to these pressures. Seeking out the correct treatment for your condition is better both for yourself, and for others who need access to the right care in the right place. By practicing self-care, and seeking help from a suitable service where applicable, you can help to keep yourself safe and well this winter, and allow those who need urgent care to access it promptly.”

Find out more about staying safe and well this winter at: https://www.stockport.gov.uk/stay-well-this-winter.