WITH the festive period approaching, we are keen to share some top tips with our community on staying healthy and out of hospital over Christmas and New Year writes Dr Andrew Kelso, Chief Medical Officer at The Princess Alexandra Hospital NHS Trust (PAHT).

Winter weather can increase the chance of falls, pneumonia and flu, heart conditions and other health issues. This can lead to hospital admissions, particularly for people aged 65 and over.

There has been a significant rise in cases of flu and other respiratory infections within hospitals across the UK, leading to increased pressure on healthcare services. We are seeing higher patient admissions with flu. This surge is attributed to colder weather, increased social interactions, and shifting immunity levels in the population.

It is so important to have your flu vaccine as soon as possible, if you haven’t already. The flu vaccine remains the most effective defence against severe illness and needing hospital care. However, it takes up to two weeks after vaccination for the body to develop antibodies and a full immune response.

Please make sure that you are up-to-date with your flu, COVID, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccinations, which are especially important for older people, those with underlying health conditions, and pregnant women. Visit the Hertfordshire and west Essex vaccination hub for more information on who is eligible and how to get your vaccine. 

If you have sickness and diarrhoea, stay at home, get plenty of rest and drink lots of fluids. Reduce the spread by washing your hands frequently with soap and water – hand gels won’t kill norovirus. Stay off school or work and stay away from care homes, hospitals and social occasions until you’ve been clear of symptoms for at least two days. 

If you have a respiratory virus then rest, drink plenty of fluids, and use over the counter medicines if needed. Avoid close contact with vulnerable people, keep indoor spaces airy, and wear a mask when around others. Practice good hygiene such as coughing into your bent elbow or use a tissue and dispose of it afterwards in the nearest bin. Continue to wash your hands frequently with warm water and soap.

You can get quick and easy health advice from your pharmacist. High street chemists give patients access to prescription-only medicines for common conditions including sore throat, sinusitis and earache.

If you can, use the NHS App to check for test results, order repeat prescriptions and contact your GP.

For older people in particular, staying active, keeping warm and connected with loved ones is also important for reducing the need for a hospital visit.

Winter tips for older people

• Keep living areas heated to at least 18C (64F) if possible.
• Wear several layers rather than one thick item of clothing.
• Have hot drinks and regular meals throughout the day to maintain energy levels, prevent dehydration and keep the body warm.
• Neighbours and relatives are encouraged to keep paths clear due to icy pavements and offer to collect shopping and prescriptions.
• Wear sturdy, non-slip footwear and use walking aids such as a stick or frame.
• Do gentle exercise like stretching or walking around the house to improve circulation and maintain strength, balance and mobility.
• Enjoy social contact such as regular phone calls and visits to help prevent loneliness and boost wellbeing.

Please only come to our Emergency Department if you have a serious of life-threatening illness or injury. Call NHS 111 or visit 111.nhs.uk if you are unsure of what service is best for your needs, visit your GP or pharmacy.

For more information on keeping well this winter visit the Hertfordshire and west Essex winter health and wellbeing information hub at https://www.hertsandwestessex.ics.nhs.uk/winter