Cheshire Independent Issue 197

FEBRUARY 2025 14 Take steps to protect your health aid items like plasters and antiseptic cream Most of these items can be easily purchased at your local pharmacy or supermarket. Remember to check the expiry dates and replace any out-of-date items. There are other healthcare options, including pharmacies where highly trained pharmacists can offer advice on minor ailments without an appointment. If appropriate the pharmacist can provide medication without the need for a GP appointment or prescription. NHS 111 is also available 24/7 and can guide you to the right service for your needs, includ- ing arranging out-of-hours GP appointments if necessary. MEDICAL experts in the North West are reminding people to take steps now to protect their health and treat illness as cases of flu and other winter illnesses including Covid, RSV and norovirus continue to rise. GP Dr Paula Cowan, who is also medical director for primary Care at NHS England – North West, recommends people stock up their medicine cabinets with home reme- dies for coughs, colds, flu and upset stomachs – and seek health advice early if they become unwell to avoid becoming more seriously ill. According to the latest available data, there were 4,863 people in hospital with flu in the NorthWest during the week ending January 5 compared to 3,800 the week before, a 27.9 per cent increase. Cases of Covid, RSV and norovirus have also continued to be high. With flu cases expected to peak soon, Dr Cowan has reminded the public to consider whether their symptoms could be treated at home or by seeking advice from a pharmacist or NHS 111, ensur- ing NHS services remain available for those with life threatening and serious conditions. She said: “Self-care involves indi- viduals managing minor health concerns independently, using local pharmacies and NHS online services. This approach ensures critical NHS services remain acces- sible to those with serious health conditions. Winter is always a challenging time for the NHS, but together, we canmake a difference. Please think carefully about where to go for help and leave A&E for those who really need it.” “While most minor illnesses can be managed at home, it is impor- tant to know when to seek help. When feeling worse it is important to get help sooner before it leads to serious illness that ultimately needs an admission. “If you’re worried about your symptoms or those of a loved one, use NHS 111 online or call NHS 111 for advice. In an emergency, always call 999 or visit your near- est A&E department. For common conditions like colds, sore throats, upset stomachs, or minor cuts and sprains, self- care is often the best option. Hav- ing essential items on hand can help you manage minor illnesses at home, avoiding unnecessary trips to GPs or emergency departments. Consider stocking your medicine cabinet with: • Ibuprofen and paracetamol for pain relief • Cold and flu remedies, throat lozenges, and hydration salts • Antihistamines and basic first ICare Meals on Wheels introduc on special offer Week 1 £2.99 per hot meal and sweet Week 2 £4.99 per hot meal and sweet Week 3 £5.99 per hot meal and sweet Week 4 £7.80 per hot meal and sweet 4 week special offer Minimum of 4 meals per week 0845 6041125 Call ICare to try a complimentary meal and sweet! www.icarecuisine.co.uk | www.icaregroup.co.uk delivering hot meals and a wellbeing check • A T • A Frozen Meal delivery service. • A well being check, if there is any cause of concern we contact your next of kin. If there is no answer on deliver ensures we Our P Call HEALTH & WELLBEING