Health leaders in the North West are urging the public to take care and use the NHS wisely this weekend to support pressured urgent and emergency care and primary care services after a yellow cold weather alert was issued for the region.

The warning from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is in place from 9am today (Friday 7 February) until 9am on Tuesday 11 February and means the forecast weather could impact people’s health, especially those who are older or vulnerable.

Winter is always a time of increased pressures for the NHS, with high demand for general practice, mental health and  and emergency services and increased numbers of people suffering from flu, COVID-19 and nororvirus. Latest data shows there were more patients in hospitals last week than at any other point so far this winter.

Cold and icy weather brings additional risks for people with long-term health conditions and people who are more vulnerable.

NHS England North West’s Regional Medical Director, Dr Michael Gregory said: “We always see a rise in demand for NHS services when cold weather appears. We want to encourage people to use the most appropriate services for their health needs.

“NHS 111 online is a great first port of call for non-urgent issues and can help to signpost to appropriate NHS services but if you can’t use online services give 111 a call. This will mean that A&E and 999 services have more time to deal with serious and life-threatening conditions, such as heart attacks, strokes, breathing problems, and serious accidents.

Dr Merav Kliner, Regional Deputy Director, UKHSA North West said: “As cold weather is forecast going into the weekend it is important to check in on the wellbeing of vulnerable friends, family and neighbours to ensure they are well prepared for the onset of cold weather.

“Particularly if they are elderly or otherwise at increased risk. Cold weather can have a serious impact on the health of some people, including those aged 65 and over and those with pre-existing health conditions.

“Keep in touch with others and ask if they need any practical help such as stocking up on food and medicine. If you’re worried about someone else’s health, contact your local pharmacist, your GP or NHS 111 for advice and support.”

There are host of things that people can do to reduce the risk of falling ill during periods of cold weather. Spreading sand or salt on icy surfaces on driveways, garden paths, and steps can help. Dressing for the cold weather, wearing layers, shoes that have a good grip, remember to use your walking aid, and gloves to protect your hands in case falls do happen.

Having a small supply of basic medicines, such as paracetamol, plasters, and indigestion remedies, is another way to manage minor illnesses or injuries at home, with community pharmacy teams able to offer advice on what to have a home.

People looking for health advice can also speak to their community pharmacists, who can give health and advice and when necessary prescribe medications for some conditions ranging from earache to urinary tract infections (UTI). You can find your nearest pharmacy here: Find a pharmacy – NHS (www.nhs.uk)

Other advice to help stay healthy this winter, includes:

• Heat your home to a temperature that’s comfortable for you. If you can, this should be at least 18°C in the rooms that you regularly use, such as your living room and bedroom.
• If you’re feeling cold, drink hot drinks regularly.
• Try not to sit still for more than one hour at a time. Moving even a little bit can help you to keep strength and mobility.
• Eating and drinking enough is also important. If you are finding it difficult to prepare and eat three big meals, try smaller ones throughout the day. 
• A good idea is to draw your curtains in the evenings to reduce heat loss through windows, and tuck long curtains behind radiators so that heat isn’t trapped. And make sure warm air can circulate by keeping radiators and heaters clear – don’t put furniture in front of them or dry washing on them.
• As the winter months are drawing in, look after your mental health as well as your physical health go to Every Mind Matters for advice.

For more information about self-care options for common complaints, search NHS seasonal advice or Age Concern UK