Get advice if you feel unwell

Apart from respiratory infections, other illnesses that circulate widely during winter include the norovirus (winter vomiting bug) and strep A infections (such as scarlet fever.)

Protect others

If you are unwell with respiratory symptoms, you can take steps to protect other people, such as:

• Stay at home
• Avoid contact with others
• Maintain good hand hygiene and respiratory hygiene
• Consider wearing a face covering

If your child is unwell, you may be thinking about whether to keep your child at home or off school. See the NHS guidance.

Advice

Be prepared for self-care. If you are concerned about your symptoms, know the right place to go:

• A pharmacy – pharmacists can give treatment advice for a range of minor illnesses and can tell you if you need to see a doctor. Find your nearest pharmacist in our Directory.
• Your GP – you may be able to speak to a GP online or over the phone, or go in for an appointment if they think you need to
• NHS 111 – go to 111.nhs.uk or call 111 if you have an urgent medical problem and you are not sure what to do
• Call 999 or go to A&E immediately if there is a life-threatening emergency, such as signs of hypothermia, a heart attack or a stroke.

See the leaflet produced by the NHS on how you can stay well this winter.