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Five things you can do to stay well and support your local NHS as we enter a new year

Play your part this New Year
  1. Get vaccinated! If you’re eligible for vaccinations against flu or COVID don’t miss out. Getting vaccinated is the single most effective thing you can do to prevent yourself becoming ill and suffering the worst effects of these viruses.
     
  2. Make it a New Year’s Eve you’ll remember… for the right reasons. No-one wants to start the new year in the waiting room of an emergency department or in the back of an ambulance, so take care as you celebrate with family and friends. The NHS is extremely busy this week so if you end up visiting an emergency department with a less serious illness or injury, it’s likely you’ll wait a long time to be seen as we treat those with urgent and life-threatening health issues.
     
  3. Make good choices! Whether it’s thinking carefully about the NHS service that is best for you (for instance, only visiting an emergency department if it’s an emergency), choosing to get vaccinated, or committing to a meaningful, sustainable lifestyle change (such as taking daily exercise) making choices that are appropriate for you and your health is one way you can start the new year in the right way.
     
  4. Follow the advice. When you visit an NHS setting you may be asked to take certain steps to reduce the spread of illnesses, such as wearing a mask, washing your hands or using hand sanitiser. They may seem like small things,  but they make a big difference.
     
  5. Visit responsibly. Cases of flu, COVID, and illnesses like Norovirus (the winter vomiting bug) are on the increase. These viruses can be dangerous for vulnerable patients in hospitals, and can cause staff shortages. If you think you have a virus, or have recently spent time with someone who has a virus, avoid visiting a hospital unless absolutely necessary.

Wishing you all a happy and healthy new year.

31/12/2024