AS Christmas and New Year approach, the NHS in the North West are reminding people to use NHS111 online as the first point of contact for non-emergency medical advice during the holiday period.

Ambulance services and hospitals are experiencing heightened demand, and the public can play their part by using NHS 111 online or by phone for non-emergency advice and calling 999 only in life-threatening situations.

Alternative services such as urgent treatment centres and same-day emergency care are available to ease pressures on emergency departments. In addition, appointments in general practice are also available, people should contact their practices in the usual way and they will be signposted to the most appropriate service.

To help deal with increased pressures, the NHS is also urging the public to help get their loved ones home for Christmas. Hospitals across the country struggle throughout the year with patients who are clinically ready to be discharged from hospital sometimes meaning other people wait longer for an emergency admission and a bed to become available.

Never is this more of a challenge for the NHS than over the Christmas and New Year period, when those beds are vital to treat the sickest people.

NHS England North West’s Medical Director for System Improvement and Professional Standards Dr Gareth Wallis said: “The NHS is here for you if you need us over the festive season. NHS 111 is an excellent option for healthcare support and advice on non-emergency health problems. It can direct you to the most appropriate local treatment, whether that’s your GP, a pharmacy, a callback from a nurse, or an urgent walk-in treatment centre. However, in an emergency, such as when someone is seriously ill or injured, people should still call 999 or visit A&E.”

Health advice is also available via the NHS App and the NHS website, where people can check symptoms and locate services such as their nearest pharmacy.

Keeping a small supply of basic medicines, such as paracetamol, plasters, and indigestion remedies, is another way to manage minor illnesses or injuries at home. Local pharmacists can offer advice on what to keep stocked.

Dr Wallis also underlined the importance of handwashing and other simple ways to prevent the spread of norovirus – commonly called winter vomiting bug. The NHS has reported an 86% rise in norovirus cases in hospitals in England, compared to last year.

“I’d like to remind everyone to practise good hygiene by washing hands frequently with soap and warm water, especially after using the toilet, cleaning up after illness, or before preparing food,” he added.

Norovirus symptoms, including vomiting and diarrhoea, usually resolve within two to three days, but the virus can pose a greater risk to vulnerable groups, such as young children and older adults.

The NHS in the North West is also urging anyone eligible for flu, COVID-19, or RSV vaccinations to book their appointments ahead of the busy holiday period. The National Booking Service for flu and COVID-19 vaccinations will close on 19 December, with final appointments available on 20 December. After this date, vaccinations will still be available through local NHS services, but options may be limited.

Data published today shows a 67% increase in flu hospitalisations in the North West, with 1,923 patients admitted last week compared to 1,153 the week before. Health leaders are warning that this trend could escalate further as colder weather and festive gatherings approach, highlighting the importance of vaccination to reduce severe illness and hospitalisations.