{"id":203348,"date":"2025-12-30T13:00:00","date_gmt":"2025-12-30T13:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/hillfoothealth.nhs.uk\/?p=203348"},"modified":"2025-12-30T13:00:00","modified_gmt":"2025-12-30T13:00:00","slug":"health-officials-urge-people-to-take-extra-precautions-during-busy-winter-period-as-cold-snap-hits","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/hillfoothealth.nhs.uk\/?p=203348","title":{"rendered":"Health officials urge people to take extra precautions during busy winter period as cold snap hits"},"content":{"rendered":"
<\/p>\n
\n
\n
\n

As Cheshire and Merseyside braces for plunging temperatures and the NHS enters one of its busiest periods of the year, one of the region’s leading doctors is urging the public to take precautions and access services appropriately.<\/p>\n

Dr Paula Cowan, Wirral GP and Regional Medical Director for Primary Care at NHS England in the North West, warns that the combination of cold weather and increased demand between Christmas and New Year means it’s more important than ever to seek help early and use the right NHS services.<\/p>\n

Following an amber cold weather alert issued by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) from 8pm on Sunday 28 December to midday on Monday 5 January, Dr Cowan said:<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

\n
\n
Information:<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe period between Christmas and New Year is always one of the busiest times for the NHS, and this year we’re also dealing with a significant cold snap.<\/p>\n

\u201cDemand for NHS services typically rises during this period, and the public is urged to play their part by coming forward for care and using the right service for their needs, to ensure services are available for those with urgent and emergency needs.<\/p>\n

\u201cIf it\u2019s not an emergency, but you need urgent advice and treatment or you\u2019re unsure where to go, use NHS 111 online, which can be accessed at 111.nhs.uk or via the NHS App, to check your symptoms and be directed to the right place. <\/p>\n

\u201cWhen temperatures drop, people with long-term health conditions, particularly those affecting the heart and lungs, are most at risk. The cold can make it more difficult to breathe and we see increases in pneumonia and flu. It’s vitally important that anyone feeling unwell seeks support as soon as possible. Getting help early can often mean the difference between being treated at home and needing hospital care \u2013 and we know at this time of year, people would much rather be at home with their loved ones.<\/p>\n

\u201cBy taking practical steps to stay well and using the right services when we need them, we can all play our part in supporting the NHS during this busy period. This allows our healthcare professionals, who are continuing to work extremely hard, to focus on those who need them most.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

\n
\n
\n

Getting vaccinated, preparing a well-stocked medicine cabinet and taking precautions to prevent the spread of respiratory illnesses are some of the most important things people can do to stay well during the current cold spell and throughout the coming months.<\/p>\n

Across the North West, the NHS offers free winter vaccinations to help protect from illnesses including flu and RSV to eligible groups, reducing the risk of severe illness and complications. Eligible people can book winter vaccines via the NHS website, NHS App, community pharmacy or their GP practice.<\/p>\n

Simple steps to stay safe:<\/p>\n