Get advice if you feel unwell

Common winter illnesses

Some illnesses spread more during winter, such as the common cold, flu,  COVID-19, RSV and norovirus (also known as the “winter vomiting bug”). These can be unpleasant, and can also cause serious illness or hospitalisation for some groups of people.

Getting advice

If you feel unwell with a minor illness or injury, be prepared to care for yourself. If you are worried 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. Ask your pharmacist what medicines should be in your cabinet. Find your nearest pharmacist in our Directory
• Your GP – A range of healthcare professionals can support you depending on your situation
• 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 NHS leaflet on how to stay well this winter.

Protecting others

There are actions that we can all take to help reduce the risk of falling ill and passing it on to others. You can choose to:

• Stay at home and avoid contact with others
• Regularly clean frequently touched surfaces and shared rooms
• Maintain good hand hygiene and respiratory hygiene
• Consider wearing a face covering
• Maintain good ventilation

See Government advice on: 

• How to protect other people if you are unwell with respiratory symptoms
• How to stop the spread of norovirus

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