NHS services across the North West are experiencing increased demand as seasonal illnesses surge following the return to school and falling temperatures with the first autumn frosts.

Health leaders are encouraging residents to take steps to protect themselves and their families while using NHS services appropriately to ensure emergency care remains available for those who need it most.

The combination of children returning to classrooms and temperatures dropping in recent weeks has led to a predictable rise in respiratory infections, including colds, flu and other seasonal bugs.

The NHS in the North West is reminding people that many seasonal illnesses can be effectively managed at home with rest, fluids and over-the-counter remedies available from local pharmacies.

Dr Michael Gregory, Regional Medical Director for NHS England in the North West, said:

“We’re seeing the familiar pattern of increased illness as we move into the colder months, particularly respiratory conditions that spread more easily when children return to school. While this is expected, there are simple steps everyone can take to stay well and support our services during this busy period.”

UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is already reporting significant increases in viruses that cause the common cold, likely driven by the return of schools after the summer break. People testing positive for Rhinovirus, the most common viral infection and primary cause of the common cold, increased to 14.8% compared with 10.9% the previous week. Everyone is encouraged to practice good hygiene with regular handwashing and using tissues to reduce the spread.

The NHS is also urging people to ensure they’re up to date with their vaccinations, including flu jabs and Covid boosters for eligible groups.

The winter vaccination programme is already underway in the North West, where NHS teams have started giving flu vaccination to 2 and 3-year-olds and school aged children, and offering vaccinations for flu, RSV and whooping cough to pregnant women. Flu and Covid vaccines will be further rolled out to older adults and other eligible groups from tomorrow, 1 October.

Dr Jamie Lopez Bernal, Consultant Epidemiologist at UKHSA, said: “Flu and COVID-19 levels are starting to slowly increase. While this is to be expected at this time of year, now is the time for people to come forward for their winter vaccines if they’re eligible, before we start to see more of these viruses in circulation in the winter months.

“Vaccination offers the best protection against flu, COVID-19 and RSV which is why it’s vital that eligible groups get vaccinated.

“If you have symptoms of flu or COVID-19 such as a high temperature, cough and feeling tired and achy, try to limit your contact with others, especially those who are vulnerable. If you have symptoms and need to leave the house, our advice remains that you should wear a face covering. Washing hands regularly and using and disposing tissues in bins can reduce the spread of respiratory illnesses.”

Those with existing respiratory conditions such as asthma or COPD are advised to ensure they have adequate supplies of their regular medications and to follow their management plans carefully.

For non-emergency health concerns, residents are encouraged to use NHS 111 first – available online at 111.nhs.uk, on the NHS App and by calling 111.

Local pharmacies can provide quick and convenient expert advice and treatment for minor ailments and can also give prescription-only medicines for seven common conditions, covering sinusitis, sore throat, earache, infected insect bite, impetigo, shingles, and uncomplicated urinary tract infections, without the need for GP appointment.

Having essential items on hand can make a big difference in managing minor illnesses at home and avoiding unnecessary trips to GPs or A&E. Make sure your medicine cabinet includes essentials such as pain relief, cold and flu remedies, throat lozenges, 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. Don’t forget to check the expiry dates on your medicines and replace anything that is out of date.

For more advice and information about seasonal health visit: Winter vaccinations and winter health – NHS

Alternatively, for quick, trusted health advice direct to your mobile phone, follow the new NHS WhatsApp Channel.  To sign up, just search ‘NHS’ under the ‘Updates’ tab in WhatsApp.