People in the North West are being urged to use NHS services wisely as hospitals face continued pressure with high levels of norovirus, flu, and other winter illnesses.

Dr Michael Gregory, Regional Medical Director for NHS England – North West, reminded people they can use the NHS 111 service – which is available by calling 111 or visiting 111.nhs.uk, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week – to get health advice about managing symptoms and get any treatment needed to avoid becoming more seriously unwell.

The latest national data showed there were an average of 86 patients a day in North West hospitals with norovirus last week (week ending 9 March 2025).

Dr Gregory said: “Although it is nearly mid-March, NHS services are continuing to experience significant pressures and levels of winter viruses in circulation are still high.

“Many of these illnesses can be treated at home or with advice from a community pharmacist. If you’re unsure what to do, NHS 111 can help to signpost to appropriate NHS services. 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.”

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.

Visit the NHS.uk webpage on norovirus for useful information, including symptoms, how to treat it, and how to stop it spreading.

Community pharmacists 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)

The latest weekly winter data is available on the NHS England website.