TV and NHS doctor Ranj Singh shares five top tips to stay healthy this winter. This includes encouraging anyone with an urgent but non-life-threatening medical need to use the NHS 111 online service.
New survey data reveals that almost two in five people (39%) did not know that NHS 111 online can direct you to the right care in as little as 90 seconds. Almost half of those surveyed (48%) had used the NHS 111 phone service, but only 9% had used the online service. Nearly a third (31%) hadn’t used either. The survey also found that more than half of those surveyed (57%) didn’t know that NHS 111 online could direct you to a pharmacist, with a third (33%) unaware it could direct you to A&E.
The NHS campaign “Help Us, Help You” is highlighting the vital services NHS 111 online can provide. People can find out how to get the right healthcare in their area, get advice on self-care, and even get a call back from a nurse, doctor or other trained health professional if necessary.
Dr Ranj’s Tips To Stay Healthy This Winter
- Being active is great for your physical health, and it also has proven benefits for your mental wellbeing. Try to break up long periods of staying in one place or position – it doesn’t matter what you do, whatever your ability, as long as it gets you moving.
- Washing your hands thoroughly with soap and water for 20 seconds – the amount of time it takes to sing “Happy Birthday” twice – is one of the easiest ways to protect yourself against illnesses this winter.
- Keeping warm through the winter months can help you stay well and prevent serious health problems, so make sure to stay wrapped up warm when braving the cold.
- Getting the Covid-19 booster and flu vaccinations is the one of the best ways to protect yourself and others against these viruses this winter. If you are aged 50 or over, pregnant, have a weakened immune system or long-term health condition, you are more at risk of serious complications and will be eligible to receive these vaccinations for free. The NHS will email or text you when it is your turn, and you can book your COVID-19 booster using the National Booking Service or by calling 119.
- Finally, remember – if you need medical help fast, NHS 111 online can help. Use the online service to get assessed and directed to the right place for you, including your local GP practice, pharmacy or urgent treatment centre, in as little as 90 seconds. Visit 111.nhs.uk for more information.
Also, is there any truth in the health advice to starve a fever? Find out this and more here.
Yvonne McKenzie I work on the Features team and admit to being nosy, so I love looking after the Between Friends letters and finding out all about our lovely readers. I also look after our health copy and enjoy writing about inspiring people that help make the articles in the magazine so interesting.
