‘BE HEALTHWISE’ NHS CAMPAIGN OFFERS TOP TIPS TO STAY HEALTHY DURING WINTER MONTHS

Published date : 29 Nov 2016

People across Fife are being urged to look after their health this winter with a few simple steps that can help to avoid illness and take the pressure off busy NHS Scotland services over the festive holidays.

The advice is being shared as part of the national ‘Be Healthwise’ campaign, launched by Shona Robison MSP, the Cabinet Secretary for Health and Sport.

The health awareness initiative, fronted by Dr Owl, advises people that taking the following steps can help to avoid or deal with the most common winter ailments:

stocking up on over-the-counter medicines

checking any repeat prescriptions

ordering only what is needed to cover the holidays.

It’s also a good idea to know GP surgery and local pharmacy opening hours over the festive break.

Being prepared for common winter illnesses, or knowing where to get help if ill health does strike, means that hospital staff can help those most in need at one of the busiest times of the year.

NHS Fife Medical Director, Dr Frances Elliot, said: “Winter can be a busy period and whilst we are prepared for increased pressure, people across Fife can play an important role in ensuring we keep our emergency departments free for those who need them most.

“Making sure you are on top of your prescriptions and even making sure you have access to over the counter remedies such as aspirin or paracetamol can make a real difference if illness strikes. Not only does it mean people are being proactive in supporting their own health needs but it also allows our dedicated NHS staff to focus on those who may require additional care.

“We would also remind people of the wide range of health information available at NHS Inform which also now includes a self-help guide to enable people to understand their symptoms and make a choice about how they deal with it. Using these services, rather than turning up at A&E, will keep our emergency departments free for those who really need them.”

Backing Be Healthwise, Mid Fife and Glenrothes MSP Jenny Gilruth said: “I am very happy to support this campaign which highlights the importance of frontline services always being available to those who need them and also encourages us all to help ourselves to look after our own health and the health of our families during the winter months.”

For more information visit: www.nhsinform.scot/campaigns/be-health-wise-this-winter

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