WITH winter now fast upon us and the cold snap starting to kick in, local health services will start to become very busy.

There are things people can do to stay well this winter, including getting advice and information from places such as local pharmacies when they start to develop a cough or cold.

A local doctor said pharmacies are very well-equipped to offer advice and support, as well as a number of different remedies without them needing to visit their GP.

Those that are eligible should also ensure that they have received the free flu vaccination. Delaying the vaccination could lead to more serious health problems during winter.

Dr David Jenner, a GP from Cullompton and chair of the eastern locality of Northern, Eastern and Western Devon Clinical Commissioning Group, said:

“During the cold weather in particular people rely heavily on urgent NHS services, such as 999 or hospital emergency departments, so it’s important that they are aware of all the other NHS services where they can get advice or treatment.

“Most pharmacies provide a range of very accessible health services, including medication for common complaints like fevers, coughs, colds, aches and pains and other health issues, such as healthy eating, sexual health and giving up smoking.

“You don’t even need to make an appointment and a pharmacist will be really happy to provide advice.

“Most pharmacies also offer health advice over the telephone or you can contact NHS 111, the NHS non-emergency number for urgent medical advice that is not life-threatening.

“It is also important that those who are eligible for the free flu vaccination do get vaccinated. This could avoid more serious health conditions developing.”

Dr Jenner also said that there are things people can do for themselves, to stay well during the winter months, including; “stocking up on essential medicines at home and ensuring that house temperatures are at least 18°C (65°F)”.

Local health services available to people, include:

• NHS 111 – is the non-emergency number. To contact this service, dial 111 to speak to a trained adviser, supported by healthcare professionals. This service is for urgent medical help or advice, when it’s not a life-threatening situation.

• Pharmacist/chemist - for advice on illnesses and the right medicines,

• GP/family - for medical advice, examinations and prescriptions for illnesses you can’t shake off.

• NHS walk-in centre/minor injuries unit - for treatment of minor illnesses or injuries, without an appointment. For details of your nearest MIU or walk-in centre go to www.nhs.uk .

• Accident and emergency or 999 – only for critical or life-threatening situations.

Alan Quick