The NHS in the South West is urging people to play their part as staff work flat-out to cater for high demand in the continuing cold weather.

With the amber weather alert extended to the weekend, there is heavy pressure across the region on GP surgeries, ambulances, A&E departments and community services.

Flu and other winter-related illnesses such as vomiting and diarrhoea, as well as accidents in the icy conditions, are all taking their toll as the festive break ends.

Services are all open for those who need them, but you can help by:

• Continuing to choose the right one for your needs
• Using NHS 111 online or via phone if you’re unsure what to do or where to go
• Only calling 999 when someone is seriously injured or ill and their life may be at risk; for example, if they are unconscious, not breathing or bleeding heavily.
• If an ambulance has been arranged for you, only calling back if the patient’s condition worsens or you wish to cancel the ambulance
• Not visiting someone in hospital if you have a respiratory infection – cough or cold – or have experienced vomiting or diarrhoea within the past 48 hours

Local services, including hospitals, have escalation plans to help them manage the pressures as they ebb and flow. These are internal mechanisms that do not affect advice to patients and the public.

Where there are delays in providing treatment, despite the best efforts of staff, please continue to treat both them and other patients with respect.

You can also try to stay well by:

• Getting vaccinated against flu, if you are in one of the eligible groups
• Keeping your home at 18 degrees as a minimum and wearing layers
• If you do need to go out, taking care in the icy conditions; wear sensible shoes and take it steady when driving or cycling
• Keeping moving, so you your blood flows well to reduce the risk of falls, strokes and heart problems

Dr Trevor Smith, Regional Medical Director with NHS England South West, said: “We’re in the grip of winter at the moment, with staff as well as patients becoming ill, so I’d urge everyone to do their bit. The NHS is here for you, so don’t delay if you need us, but please help by choosing the right service.

“Pharmacies are a great first stop for lots of conditions and GP surgeries are open as usual, backed by local units if you suffer non-life-threatening injuries and A&E for the most-serious conditions. And if you don’t know where to turn, NHS 111 is there for you.

“If you’re well, please do try and stay that way by keeping warm and active, and getting your winter jabs.”

Detailed advice for people about what to do this winter as the NHS comes under pressure is available here.