7 December 2023

As the temperature dips and the festive period approaches, there’s a few things you can do to keep yourself and those you care about well this winter.

During the winter months bugs tend to circulate such as Norovirus, flu and Covid-19. If you have been invited for a flu or Covid-19 vaccination, please consider taking up this offer. If you are not eligible for a free NHS flu vaccination, many pharmacies are still offering private vaccinations for a small fee.

To help prevent the spread of infection please regularly clean your hands and surfaces and if you feel unwell, try to stay at home and avoid contact with other people. 

If you are under the weather, use the self-help guides on NHS Inform for practical advice about common conditions. For example, symptoms of many winter ailments such as minor coughs and colds can be managed through drinking plenty of fluids, rest and taking painkillers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen.

If you do require care, save time by seeking the right care in the right place. If you need health advice or treatment for non-life threatening conditions, please call NHS 24 first on 111, day or night.

Community Pharmacists can provide expert advice and treatment for a range of common illnesses and ailments such as impetigo, urinary tract infections, shingles and skin infections. They can also offer advice about your medicines and provide emergency prescriptions.

Dr Tim Young, Associate Medical Director of Primary & Community Services at NHS Borders, said: “Winter can be a challenging time. It is important to take care of yourself and be prepared. Ahead of the festive period order any prescriptions in plenty of time and only order what you need.

“It’s also a good time to look in your medicine cabinet, check expiry dates and ensure that you have essentials such as painkillers, rehydration sachets, indigestion remedies and - if you have children or grandchildren - ensure that you have age-appropriate medications such as liquid paracetamol or ibuprofen.

“Lastly, know how to stay well with the NHS24 online app, check your symptoms online and find your nearest service.”