Stay well this winter

This year more than ever, it’s important for local residents to be prepared ahead of the festive period to guard against winter illnesses and help the NHS continue to provide vital services to those who need them most.

As the pandemic continues, so do the pressures on health and care services, GP practices and hospitals. In October, NHS 999 services had their busiest ever month on record and A&Es treated over 1.4 million people – the highest ever for the month and third highest of all time.

The total number of GP appointments, which includes both standard and Covid-19 vaccination appointments, was almost 34 million, which is 10% higher than pre-covid appointment levels in October 2019. The number of face-to-face appointments also increased by 12% from 17.3 million to 19.4 million and face-to-face appointments now make up close to two thirds (64.4%) of all appointments.

By choosing the right service, patients can help to ease pressure on the NHS and will get the best treatment in the shortest possible time – whilst keeping emergency health services available for emergencies and life-threatening conditions and helping to keep health and care staff and patients safe. 

One of the most important things residents can do to protect each other and stay well this winter is to get their flu and Covid-19 vaccinations. People are at significantly greater risk of death and of serious illness if they are co-infected with flu and Covid-19.

You can find out more information about Covid-19 vaccinations here, including details of walk-in booster and first and second dose clinics. More information about the flu vaccination can be found on the NHS website.

Residents in the borough should also order and collect any repeat prescriptions in advance of the holiday period and keep a well-stocked medicine cabinet at home. Many over the counter medicines, including paracetamol and ibuprofen, can relieve symptoms of common winter ailments such as colds, sore throats, sinusitis or earache.

It is also important to note there will be changes to opening arrangements as regular services stay closed on Christmas day and the bank holidays in lieu of Boxing day and New Year’s day which fall on a weekend this year.

Details of pharmacy opening times in Heywood, Middleton and Rochdale over Christmas and New Year can be viewed on the CCG website here. Patients are advised to telephone their usual pharmacy before travelling in case of last-minute changes.

Pharmacies: offer expert clinical advice and over-the-counter medicines for a range of minor illnesses and everyday ailments. They are often open for longer hours and at the weekend and you don’t need an appointment.

NHS 111: The NHS’ 111 service is available 24/7 to provide advice, treatment and care. Just ring 111 or visit 111.nhs.uk for advice and the service will refer you to the most appropriate option for your care. If you need a face to face consultation, they can book you a time slot.

NHS.uk: is your complete guide to conditions, symptoms and treatments, including what to do and when to get help.

GP practices: are offering appointments over the phone and online, and for those patients that need a face to face appointment, they will be seen at their practice. Evening and weekend appointments are also available via the seven-day access service by calling the central booking line on 0161 763 8292.

Dr Chris Duffy, NHS HMR CCG chair and local GP said: “We understand that people will be looking forward to Christmas this year with the opportunity to meet up with more family and friends than was possible last year.

“However, we are reminding people of the need to be cautious, particularly with the uncertainty of the new Omicron Covid-19 variant circulating. It’s vital that people protect each other and the NHS by getting their booster jab as soon as they are eligible.

“If you’re visiting people over Christmas, especially anyone who is vulnerable, it’s a good idea to take a Covid-19 test beforehand. You should also open windows just a little bit to let fresh air in and wash your hands regularly to stop germs spreading.

“As always in winter, we usually see an increase in coughs, colds and flu symptoms. You can help yourself to beat early cold and flu symptoms by resting at home, drinking plenty of fluids and having at least one hot meal a day to keep your energy levels up. Pharmacies can also offer expert clinical advice on a range of minor illnesses such as coughs, colds and sinusitis

“If you urgently need medical help or advice, but don’t have a 999 emergency, you can visit 111 online using your smartphone, laptop or other digital device. The service is free to use and helps to direct you to the right care, first time.

“Finally, I would like to wish all our residents a happy and safe Christmas and thank you for your continued support.”