Health wise over winter

NHS Western Isles is urging islanders of the importance of being prepared for seasonal illnesses, and taking care of themselves and their families over the festive period.

The national campaign, Be Health-Wise this Winter is designed to encourage everyone to take a few simple steps to ensure they are well prepared over the festive period.

NHS Western Isles medical director, Angus McKellar, said the campaign is an important reminder that opening times in community services such as GP surgeries and pharmacies will change over the holidays.

He said: “We know that the festive period can be a particularly busy time for all services in NHS Western Isles so it’s important that we all do what we can to look after ourselves and our families, where appropriate.

“Planning ahead can help ensure that coughs, colds and minor ailments don’t become a big problem for you and your family over winter.

“Stocking up on remedies is a good idea to help tackle common conditions. Knowing where to get help if someone does become unwell is also important so it’s good to know your local GP and pharmacy opening times that may vary over the holidays.

“We also have a really good resource online at www.nhsinform.scot which includes self-help guides so you can quickly and easily check symptoms and decide what to do next.”

Being health wise over winter

26 December 2017