Simple actions can help you stay well this winter

Getting vaccinated, good hand hygiene and talking to your pharmacist about over-the-counter remedies for simple illnesses are just some of the ways highlighted in the ‘Stay Well this Winter’ campaign to help people prepare for the winter months.

Throughout October and November, the Public Health Agency (PHA), in collaboration with more than 500 community pharmacies and the Department of Health, is running the campaign to help people prepare for the winter months. 

Through the Living Well service, people can call in to their local pharmacy to find out more information on how to help protect their health, with advice on vaccinations, staying warm this winter, hand hygiene, and over-the-counter remedies for simple illnesses that don’t require antibiotics.

Andrew Cheung, Principal Pharmaceutical Officer at the PHA, said: “As we move through the coming months, the weather will be getting colder and winter can bring additional health challenges. This is particularly the case for more vulnerable members of our community, such as older people and those living with long-term conditions such as asthma, diabetes or COPD. 

“That's why, through the 'Stay Well this Winter' campaign, we're asking everyone to think ahead, consider the things they can do to help keep themselves and others in better health during the colder months, and speak to their local pharmacist for advice. 

“If you, or someone you know, is eligible for the flu, COVID-19 or RSV vaccinations, we'd encourage you to take up the offer of these free vaccines, which can help reduce the risk of serious illness. 

“As well as vaccination, other simple actions can help you stay well, such as washing your hands regularly, using a tissue when you cough or sneeze, staying active and keeping warm. Together, these simple steps can help you stay well, protect others and support good physical and mental wellbeing.”

Joyce Cleland, Community Pharmacist at Boots Pharmacy in Lisburn, added: “Pharmacists are well positioned in the community to offer advice and support about different health matters that may arise over the winter months. 

“All colds and most coughs, sinusitis, earache and sore throats can get better without antibiotics, so we can recommend over-the-counter medicines for most minor illnesses. You should take your pharmacist or GP’s advice and only take antibiotics when you need them. We can provide all the advice you need to stay well this winter, so consider speaking to a pharmacist before going to your GP.”

Following these 10 top tips can help you stay well this winter:

1. ‘Catch it. Bin it. Kill it’ – carry tissues and use them to catch coughs or sneezes, then bin the tissue and wash your hands after.
2. Wash your hands – regularly wash your hands throughout the day and hands should always be washed before eating or drinking and after using the toilet.
3. Rest up – know when to stay home to stop the spread. If you have a high temperature stay home until you feel better or if you have diarrhoea and/or vomiting, you should stay home for at least 48 hours after the last episode.
4. Speak to your pharmacist about over-the-counter remedies and remember antibiotics don't work on viruses.
5. Winter vaccines – if eligible get your COVID-19, flu or RSV vaccine.
6. Keeping warm over winter months can help prevent colds, flu and more serious health problems. Wear warm clothes, even indoors if it is cold and where possible heat your main living room to around 18-21ºC (64-70ºF). But it is important to make sure your heating is safe. Install a carbon monoxide alarm to reduce the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.
7. Eat well – food is a source of energy which helps to keep your body warm. Try to make sure you have hot meals and drinks regularly throughout the day.
8. Keep active – regular exercise can help improve your physical and mental health, reduce the risk of falls and can be beneficial for recovery if you do get ill.
9. Seek support – if you feel like you need that extra bit of support with your mental health and wellbeing, there is lots of advice and self-care tips on www.mindingyourhead.info. If you need more support contact your GP.
10. Look out for others, such as older family members, friends or neighbours, who may need a bit of extra help during winter.

Find out more at www.pha.site/Staywellthiswinter