The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) South West is reminding everyone of the simple steps they can take to protect their health as they gear up for end of year festivities.
Get vaccinated
Winter illnesses, including flu, COVID-19 and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), are circulating widely, with emergency department attendances on the rise. We strongly encourage everyone eligible – especially the elderly, pregnant women, and those with pre-existing health conditions – to come forward for their vaccinations for these infections. Vaccination will help reduce your risk of getting seriously ill this Christmas and New Year.
School-aged children in reception through to year 11 are also eligible for a free flu vaccine, delivered as a nasal spray in schools or as an injection for those with medical or faith exemptions. If your child missed getting a vaccine at school, they can get it at a catch-up clinic. Two- and three-year-olds (on or before 31 August 2024), as well as children aged 6 months to 2 years with certain health conditions, can also receive the flu vaccine through their GP.
Keep washing your hands
Norovirus, which causes vomiting and diarrhoea, is circulating at higher levels than average so far this year as we all start spending more time indoors together with friends and family.
To reduce the spread of norovirus, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water for 20 seconds, as alcohol-based hand sanitisers are not effective against the virus. Use bleach-based products to clean surfaces and avoid preparing food for others if you have diarrhoea and/or vomiting.
Give it a miss
If you do have respiratory symptoms such as a cough or sore throat, along with a fever, consider giving social gatherings a miss as it’s best to avoid close contact with other people, especially those who are vulnerable – such as the elderly or those with weakened immune systems. If you do go out in crowded places, consider wearing a facemask to reduce your risk of infecting others.
If you’ve had diarrhoea and vomiting, avoid school or work for 48 hours after symptoms stop and do not visit loved ones in care homes or in hospitals to reduce the chances of causing outbreaks in these settings.
Practice self-care and use antibiotics responsibly
Getting plenty of rest, drinking lots of water, and taking over-the-counter medications are often effective ways for dealing with common minor illnesses like colds, sore throats or coughs.
Antibiotics do not work against viruses, which are the usual cause of these conditions. Taking antibiotics when you don’t need them can contribute to antibiotic resistance, making it harder to treat bacterial infections in the future, so always listen to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist’s advice.
Protect yourself against cold weather this winter. Maintain indoor temperatures of at least 18°C, particularly if you are older or live with elderly people, young children, or those with long-term health conditions. If you’re spending time outdoors, ensure you wear plenty of warm clothing.
Professor Dominic Mellon, Regional Deputy Director for Health Protection UKHSA South West, said:
“The Christmas season is a special time where families and friends come together to celebrate. However, it also coincides with when respiratory virus activity typically rises.
“Flu, norovirus and other winter bugs are the presents that no one wants to receive this Christmas. In amongst getting gifts sorted and planning what’s on the festive menu, make time to prioritise your health by getting vaccinated to ensure you stay Winter Strong and keep your plans on track.
“You can also help reduce the risk of passing infections on to others through frequent handwashing and catching coughs and sneezes in a tissue. If you have diarrhoea and vomiting, do try and avoid passing it on by staying away from work or school for 48 hours after symptoms have stopped and avoid visiting vulnerable loved ones, especially if they are in a care home or hospital.”
Dr Rupa Joshi, Deputy Medical Director for NHS England South West, said:
“As we prepare to see loved ones this Christmas, it’s important to keep warm and well this winter if you can, by following some simple steps to stay well. Getting vaccinated against winter illnesses, including flu, COVID-19 and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is very important, and there is still time to get protected.
“As well as heating your home appropriately, wearing several thinner layers will keep you warmer than one thicker layer. It is also very important to ensure you are eating enough and having hot drinks when you can.
“Winter bugs are circulating, so good hand hygiene is essential. If you think you are unwell or at risk of spreading bugs to a loved one, avoid close contact with others, especially if they are vulnerable.”