A bit of advice from the Oxford Hospital Trust

Hospitals get very busy in colder weather, especially A&E.

  • Winter is generally a very busy time for the NHS and health services in general – A&E in particular gets very busy, so please don’t attend unless it is a genuine medical emergency
  • 111 is the NHS’s non-emergency telephone number. It is  open 24 hours a day and is fast, easy and free. Your symptoms will be assessed over the phone by a healthcare professional who will then immediately direct you to the best medical care for your symptoms
  • Local community pharmacies can help you with lots of everyday ailments
  • Get your flu jab – flu can be very serious for people over 65, people with long-term conditions such as diabetes, or kidney or heart conditions.  Pregnant women are also at risk
  • If you start to feel unwell, don’t wait until it gets more serious – seek advice from your pharmacist in the first instance
  • Make sure your own medicine cabinet is stocked up with cough and cold remedies, and that you’re up to date with your prescription medicine
  • Keep an eye out for your elderly neighbours
  • Keep your home warm
  • Visit the NHS Stay Well website for more information

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