NHS Humber and North Yorkshire Health and Care Partnership is advising residents on how to stay healthy during winter.
Ordering repeat prescriptions
To avoid running out of repeat medication, Hull and East Riding of Yorkshire residents are urged to place their orders this week.
As Christmas approaches, pharmacy processing times may be longer than usual due to the volume of prescriptions.
Dr Nigel Wells, Executive Director of Clinical and Care Professional for Humber and North Yorkshire Health and Care Partnership, said: “If you order your repeat medication directly via your GP Practice, please be patient – GP surgeries remain exceptionally busy at the moment.
“The easiest and quickest way to order your repeat medicine is via the NHS App, or GP Online Services – you can do this from the comfort of your own home, without having to leave the house.
“Before you order repeat prescriptions, please check what medicines you already have at home and only order the items you need and please do not stockpile medicines. Excess supplies of medicines at home can be dangerous and is also wasteful. Once dispensed, medicines cannot be re-used and have to be destroyed.”
Keep a well-stocked medicine cabinet
To treat common illnesses without seeing a doctor, keep some over-the-counter remedies at home such as paracetamol, ibuprofen, and anti-diarrhoea tablets on hand.
Use the right service
A trained medical professional can help you find the right medical care if it is not an emergency by calling NHS 111 or using the 111 online services. If it is not an emergency, you can get medical advice by calling NHS 111 or using the NHS 111 online service 24/7.
For minor health concerns, some pharmacies will remain open on Christmas Day, Boxing Day, and New Year’s Day.
Minor health conditions such as coughs, colds, sore throats, stomach troubles, and aches and pains can be treated by your local pharmacy during the winter.
Over the Christmas and New Year period, community pharmacies may have different hours of operation. More information can be found on the NHS website at www.nhs.uk/service-search/find-a-Pharmacy
Be aware of norovirus
During this time of year, norovirus outbreaks are more common. Norovirus does not have a specific treatment, but you can ease your symptoms by taking steps. Be sure to stay hydrated if you have diarrhoea or sickness.
It’s best not to see your doctor unless symptoms persist over a few days; washing your hands thoroughly after using the toilet is one of the best ways to avoid catching norovirus.
Look out for yourself and others
Even short bursts of sunshine can improve your mental health during the colder weather and shorter days.
Make sure you keep in touch and check in on your elderly neighbours and relatives during the winter months as they may need extra support to stay healthy.
An ambulance should always be called for a serious or life-threatening illness or injury, or patients should go to the nearest emergency room.
