ONE of the main organisations commissioning healthcare services in Wharfedale is advising residents to take simple steps to stay healthy this winter.

Local clinical commissioning groups (CCGs), NHS Airedale, Wharfedale and Craven, NHS Bradford City and NHS Bradford Districts, have joined forces to promote the message 'think WINTER'.

Their message is:

l Warm – Keep your house warm this winter

l Immunisations – Get your flu vaccination

l Neighbours – Keep an eye on elderly neighbours and relatives

l Timely – Seek advice from a pharmacist at first sign of illness

l Enough – Pick up repeat prescriptions so you have enough over the festive period; and

l Restock – Make sure you have enough food and medicine in the cupboard.

Dr Colin Renwick, clinical chairman of NHS Airedale, Wharfedale and Craven CCG, said: “At such a busy time of year, people often forget to be prepared and look after themselves so we hope this easy to use acronym will help keep our local residents well.

“We are also encouraging people to use their local pharmacy. Traditionally, we see an increase in bugs and viruses during the winter months and lots of minor illnesses can be treated with over-the-counter remedies.”

Many pharmacies in the 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.

The CCG is also advising people to follow simple tips:

l Self-care: look after yourself at home with a well-stocked medicine cabinet

l Pharmacist (chemist): for expert advice on common illnesses and the best medicines to treat them

l GP (doctor): for illnesses that just won’t go away, arrange to see your doctor

l Call 111: if you need urgent healthcare, contact NHS 111 which will help you access the local service that can help you

l NHS Choices: nhs.uk is the UK’s biggest health website, containing a range of information to help you look after yourself and your family; and

l Accident and Emergency or 999: only if you need very urgent medical attention.