Winter can be a difficult time for our health. Cold weather, coughs, colds and flu can make us feel unwell.
There are simple things you can do to protect yourself and your family. Knowing where to get help can also make a big difference.
Get your winter vaccinations
Flu and COVID-19 can cause serious illness, especially for older people and those with certain health conditions.
If you are eligible, getting vaccinated can help protect you from becoming seriously ill.
- Check if you can have a free NHS flu vaccine.
- Check if you are eligible for a COVID-19 vaccine.
- Take up any other NHS vaccinations offered to you.
Find out about the flu vaccine
Find out about the COVID-19 vaccine
Know where to get help
You do not always need a GP appointment when you feel unwell.
Visit your local pharmacy
Pharmacists can give advice about many common illnesses, including coughs, colds and sore throats.
Through NHS Pharmacy First, participating pharmacies can also offer treatment for certain conditions, including earache, sinusitis and some urinary tract infections, when you meet the criteria.
Use NHS 111
If you need urgent medical help but it is not an emergency, NHS 111 can tell you what to do next.
You can also call 111.
Contact your GP practice
If you have a health concern that is not getting better, or you need ongoing care, contact your GP practice.
You can also use your practice website to find out how to request appointments and repeat prescriptions.
Keep warm and well
Cold weather can make some health problems worse.
- Try to keep rooms you use regularly warm. Aim for at least 18°C if you can, especially if you are older or have a health condition.
- Wear several layers of clothing.
- Eat regular meals and have warm drinks.
- Keep moving throughout the day.
- Check on older relatives, friends and neighbours.
Read NHS advice on keeping warm and well
Stop winter bugs from spreading
Winter viruses can spread quickly.
You can help protect others by:
- Washing your hands regularly with soap and water.
- Using tissues when you cough or sneeze.
- Throwing used tissues away.
- Staying at home and avoiding close contact with others if you have a high temperature or feel too unwell for normal activities.
- Keeping rooms well ventilated when possible.
Order repeat prescriptions in good time
GP practices and pharmacies may have different opening times over Christmas and New Year.
If you take regular medicine, check what you have left and order repeat prescriptions in good time. Only order what you need.
You can use the NHS App to request repeat prescriptions if this service is available to you.
Find out how to order repeat prescriptions
Get help in an emergency
Call 999 if someone has a life-threatening emergency, such as a suspected heart attack, stroke or severe difficulty breathing.
For urgent help that is not life-threatening, use NHS 111.
This winter, look after yourself, check on others and choose the right NHS service when you need help.