NHS clinical leaders for Wharfedale and Airedale are are reminding people to keep accident and emergency departments for emergencies only, to avoid the New Year hospital rush.

The advice from the clinical commissioning groups (CCGs) and Airedale NHS Foundation Trust reminds people suffering from viral coughs, flu and minor ailments to recover at home, leaving A and E doctors and nurses free to help those with life-threatening illness.

Many minor illnesses can be treated with over-the-counter remedies available from a community pharmacy, say the NHS organisations, and pharmacies can also provide advice on a range of minor ailments including bugs and viruses, tummy troubles and much more. Your local pharmacy should be the first point of contact for any minor illnesses.

Pharmacies in the Bradford District also offer the Pharmacy First service which gives people quick access to a pharmacist who can give advice and support and, where needed, can also supply medicines without the need for a doctor’s appointment.

Dr Colin Renwick, clinical chair of NHS Airedale, Wharfedale and Craven Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG), said: “The NHS is open seven days a week, 365 days a year for those who need emergency help, but A&E always experiences a surge in the days following the bank holidays – so we’re asking people to only attend if it’s absolutely necessary.

“Having winter remedies such as over the counter painkillers and simple cough syrups in stock is always a good idea. Using a pharmacist as a first point of contact when you’re unwell is often the best thing to do.”

Paul Jennings, consultant in emergency medicine for Airedale NHS Foundation Trust, said: “Winter is the busiest time for our emergency department and you can help us to make sure that patients who really do need our service are dealt with quickly.

“Our emergency department is for accident and emergency cases only such as severe chest pain, difficulty breathing, significant head injuries and broken bones. If you feel you need urgent medical advice or treatment consider trying to see your pharmacy or GP first, or call NHS 111. Please think carefully about which NHS service you need in order to avoid an unnecessary trip to A&E.”