People in the North West are being urged to use services wisely as GP practices and A&E departments continue to see increased demand amid high levels of norovirus, flu, and other winter illnesses.

GP Dr Paula Cowan, NHS England North West Regional Medical Director for Primary Care, recommends the public use NHS 111 online at 111.nhs.uk or call 111 for  health advice to manage symptoms, get any treatment needed and avoid becoming more seriously unwell.

January and February tend to be some of the busiest months for the NHS and the latest national data shows the number of people hospitalised with norovirus hit its highest level so far last week (week ending 19 January), with an average of 898 people a day in hospital with the virus. The numbers of people in hospital with flu and COVID-19 have also remained high, with an average of 3,019 flu patients in hospital each day last week compared with 2,226 the same week last year.

Dr Paula Cowan said: “Winter is an extremely busy time for our clinicians, staff working in GP practices and our doctors and nurses and other health professionals working in our A&Es.

“For this reason, we’d recommend using the 111 online service if you need urgent, but non-emergency medical advice or help. You answer the same questions and receive the same advice as calling 111 but it could be quicker, and the service could send you on an appropriate health service for the best advice and care.

“Of course, in the event of a life or limb threatening emergency people should always continue to call 999 or attend A&E.”

NHS 111 online works the same as the 111 phone service and is already popular with people who want quick advice about the best options for getting the care they need.  These can include getting a call back from a trained clinician or nurse, booking them an appointment in A&E, or providing advice.

NHS 111 online is not available for under 5s. People looking for urgent medical help for under 5s should use the 111 phone line.

Dr Cowan added: “Our staff are working tirelessly to ensure all our patients across the North West receive the care they need and we are extremely grateful for their dedication during such a busy time.  It is vital the public are aware of the pressure the health service will be under and know the best way to access care during this time.

“NHS 111 helps to direct people to the right service quickly, as well as providing medical advice. It’s just one of the ways that we are trying to get people to the right service first time whilst keeping urgent and emergency services free for the most seriously ill and injured patients.”

111.nhs.uk can help you with:

• where to get help for your symptoms, if you’re not sure what to do
• how to find general health information and advice
• where to get an emergency supply of your prescribed medicine
• how to get a repeat prescription
• get emergency dental appointments

You should still ring 999 if you experience:

• signs of a heart attack like pain like a heavy weight in the centre of your chest
• signs of stroke such as your face dropping on one side
• difficulty breathing
• heavy bleeding that won’t stop
• seizures
• or sudden and rapid swelling of the eyes, lips, throat, or tongue

People can also speak to their local pharmacist on a wide range of health issues from earache to urinary tract infections (UTI’s) and get advice, over-the-counter medicine or, where needed, prescription medication for a range of conditions.

For common conditions like colds, sore throats, upset stomachs, or minor cuts and sprains, self-care is often the best option. Having essential items on hand can help you manage minor illnesses at home, avoiding unnecessary trips to GPs or emergency departments.

Consider stocking your medicine cabinet with:

• Ibuprofen and paracetamol for pain relief.
• Cold and flu remedies, throat lozenges, and hydration salts.
• Antihistamines and basic first aid items like plasters and antiseptic cream.

Most of these items can be easily purchased at your local pharmacy or supermarket. Remember to check the expiry dates and replace any out-of-date items.