NHS Greater Manchester has issued instructions on what to do if you or someone else gets ill this week
The flu crisis has hit ‘worst-case scenario’ in the NHS(Image: PA)
Greater Manchester’s NHS has issued a warning to the region amid the intense wave of flu battering the health service.
Rising flu cases mean services may be busier than usual this festive season, says NHS Greater Manchester. And with GP practices and pharmacies closed on December 25 and 26, and January 1, NHS Greater Manchester is doing a final reminder to anyone on regular medication to order repeat prescription as early as possible.
Repeat prescriptions should be requested at least a week in advance, and earlier if this period overlaps a bank holiday, says the NHS, as ‘every Christmas and bank holiday, NHS 111 sees a large increase in calls from people who have run out of prescription medicine’. The NHS warns that, by being prepared, you ensure NHS 111 is there for those who really need it during one of the busiest times of year for the NHS.
With flu and other winter illnesses on the rise, alongside planned industrial action, ordering repeat prescriptions early and keeping up to date with recommended winter vaccines will help you stay well during the festive period.
Chief Pharmacist for NHS Greater Manchester, Kenny Li, said: “It’s important for anyone who takes medication regularly to make sure they have enough to last over Christmas and New Year, especially if you’re planning any trips to see family and friends in another part of the country, or abroad. It’s not worth risking running out of essential medication.
“We are already seeing rising flu cases, so having your regular prescription medicines and some simple cold and flu treatments at home, will help you stay well and avoid unnecessary visits to NHS services during this busy period. Please still ensure that you’re only ordering prescription medication if you need it so that we don’t risk any shortages.
“Ordering your repeat prescription has never been easier – simply use the NHS App or order as you usually would.”
If you do run short of prescription medicine, please still contact NHS 111 for support, says the NHS. The health service has also issued information on what to do if you or someone else becomes unwell this week.
Contraception
Many pharmacies can start or continue oral contraception and provide emergency hormonal contraception, ‘the morning after pill’, in some cases for free.
Dental care
If you have pain in your mouth, teeth or gums, call the Greater Manchester Dental Helpline on 0333 332 3800. It is available 8am to 10pm every day, including weekends and bank holidays, for those who need urgent help when their dental practice is closed, or do not have a regular dentist. A charge may apply.
Emergency and urgent careUse NHS 111 online or call 111 for non-emergenciesCall 999 or go to A&E for life-threatening emergenciesMental health
For mental health crisis support, call NHS 111 and press 2 for free 24/7 help.
Pharmacies
Local pharmacies remain an easy and convenient way to get expert advice on minor conditions.
Under Pharmacy First, pharmacists can treat several conditions such as earache (age 1 to 17 years), sore throats (age 5 and over) and urinary tract infections (16 to 64 years) without needing a GP appointment.
For full Christmas opening hours visit: https://gmintegratedcare.org.uk/bankholidaypharmacy/
Urgent eye care
Greater Manchester’s Urgent Eye Care Service can provide help quickly if you have a sudden change in vision, red or painful eyes or new flashes or floaters. The service is available throughout the week including evenings and weekends.
Call your local optician to use the service. If they don’t take part in the service, find one that does. This is not a walk-in service so always call first.
Keep your home warm
A council-led ECO4 Flexible Eligibility Scheme offers fully funded home improvements such as insulation and boiler upgrades for eligible households. To see if you qualify for this scheme and how to get a grant visit: www.gmca.retrofitportal.org.uk or call Improveasy on 0800 024 8505.
Dr Manisha Kumar, Chief Medical Officer at NHS Greater Manchester, added: “We want everyone to enjoy the festive season, which is why we’re encouraging people to plan for the kinds of minor health issues that often crop up at this time of year.
“Having enough repeat prescription medication, along with a few everyday items like painkillers, plasters, and cold remedies, makes it easier to deal with winter bugs without needing to seek help at short notice. These can all be bought from a local supermarket or pharmacy.
“Getting your recommended winter vaccines is also important, and we’re grateful to staff across the NHS, social care, and the voluntary sector who are working hard to keep services running and people protected during this busy season.
“There’s support available through the Greater Manchester Dental Helpline and the Urgent Eye Care Service if you need it. For all other concerns, use NHS 111 to get the right advice and be directed to the appropriate service. Remember, A&E is for life-threatening emergencies only.”