The Chief Medical Officer at Wirral University Teaching Hospital and Wirral Community Health and Care NHS Foundation Trust is urging local people to be winter ready and well this year.
Dr Nikki Stevenson encouraging people across Wirral to make their health a priority and take simple steps to prepare for the colder months.
She said: “The most important thing people can do right now is to have their flu vaccination. Flu can be very serious, especially for older people and those with long-term conditions, and getting vaccinated is the best way to protect yourself and others this winter.”
Some people may also be eligible for a COVID-19 vaccination, and Dr Stevenson encouraged anyone invited to take up their appointment.
To help avoid winter accidents and unnecessary hospital visits, people are being advised to keep their homes well lit, remove clutter, use non-slip mats in bathrooms and mop up spills quickly. Keeping a small supply of useful medicines at home, such as pain relief, antihistamines and basic first aid items, can also make a big difference, as can ordering prescriptions in good time.
Keeping warm is another essential step. Homes should ideally be heated to at least 18°C, and wearing layers, eating at least one hot meal a day and having regular warm drinks can all help. Warmth can also be maintained by closing curtains at dusk and keeping internal doors closed to reduce draughts.
For those who can, staying active is also beneficial during winter.
Dr Stevenson said: “Simple measures really do help. Keeping warm, having the right medication at home and staying active all contribute to better health over winter. I would also recommend limiting long periods of sitting down, getting up to move every 30 minutes and taking regular walks.”
She also encouraged people to look out for others and added: “Checking in on neighbours, friends or relatives who may be vulnerable or living alone can make a huge difference. A quick call or visit to make sure they are warm, well and have enough food and medication can help keep them safe.”
Healthcare partners in Wirral continue to work together to make sure people do not stay in hospital longer than necessary. Once patients are medically fit, recovering at home or in the community is usually the safest option.
Dr Stevenson said: “When patients no longer need hospital care, the best place for them to recover is at home or in a community setting. Staying in hospital longer than necessary carries risks such as loss of muscle mass, reduced mobility and increased chance of infection.
“This also helps ensure beds are available for those who are seriously unwell and urgently need them.”
People can further support the NHS by choosing the right service for their needs.
Dr Stevenson added: “A&E is for life-threatening emergencies. People in the greatest need will always be prioritised, and this can lead to longer waits for others. What people may not see is the level of care happening behind the scenes for patients arriving by ambulance with life-threatening conditions.
“There is lots of help available for non-emergency problems. If it’s not an emergency, please use NHS 111 online or by phone, speak to your GP, visit a Walk-in Centre or use your local pharmacy for expert advice.”
Dr Stevenson also highlighted the importance of the Think UTC campaign led by Wirral Community Health and Care NHS Foundation Trust.
She said: “Our Urgent Treatment Centre (UTC) is a great option for a wide range of urgent problems, including minor injuries, infections and suspected fractures. Before coming to A&E, please stop and think UTC. It often means being seen more quickly and helps us keep A&E free for those with life-threatening needs.”
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