Top tips to keep well this winter

Winter can be a time when more people fall ill than at other times of the year. But there are a few things you can do to get yourself ready for the colder weather.

Keep a supply of remedies at home. Paracetamol (paracetamol suspension – preferably sugar-free for children), ibuprofen or aspirin all help to reduce raised temperatures and relieve the aches and pains associated with coughs,colds and flu.

If you have a cough, cold or flu, drink plenty of water or other non-alcoholic liquids to replace fluids lost in sweating, keep warm and rest as much as you can.

Do not give aspirin to children under 16 years of age.

Check medicines in your home are up to date and keep them in their original labelled container. Always follow instructions on the box or label. If you are unsure or taking other medicines prescribed by your doctor, check with your local pharmacist first.

To combat the cold, layers of thinner clothing are more effective than one thick layer. Choose clothes made of wool, cotton or fleecy synthetic fibres.

To help NHS Lothian help you this winter, please remember:

• If you have conditions such as serious lung or heart problems, or diabetes, you are entitled to a free flu vaccination. It doesn’t matter how old you are.
• If you haven’t made an appointment yet, or have missed your appointment, please contact your GP as soon as you can to receive protection.

For a full list of conditions, please visit www.infoscotland.com/flu

GP practices will be closed from 25-28 December and then from 1-4 January. GP practices will open on Christmas Eve (Wednesday 24 December) and Hogmanay (Wednesday 31 December). Most pharmacies will be closed on 25 and 26 December and 1 and 2 January 2009.

With GP practices and pharmacies closed on these days, please make sure you order and collect from your GP practice any repeat prescriptions you need in plenty of time before the festive holidays.

Remember – our out-of-hours services cannot provide repeat prescriptions.

All Council social work local offices will be closed from 25-28 December and then for four days the following week, 1-4 January.

Offices will open on Christmas Eve (Wednesday 24 December) and Hogmanay (Wednesday 31 December).

Need to know

• For expert health advice, ask your local pharmacy. For pharmacy opening times over the festive season, visit www.nhs24.com
• A&E services are for urgent and emergency situations only.
• For minor ailments and injuries, go to the Minor Injuries Clinic at Edinburgh’s Western General Hospital (for adults and children over one year). No appointment needed. Phone 0131 537 1330/1331.
• NHS 24 and out-of-hours care 08454 24 24 24.
• If you think you or someone you know needs help when the offices are closed, you can contact the Emergency Social Work Service on 0800 731 6969.