Is it an emergency?
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in Ipswich and East Suffolk News, North East Essex News, West Suffolk News
With the Met Office having today issued a Level 3 alert warning of a 90% probability of very cold weather in our area next Monday to Thursday, local GPs are encouraging people to be aware of the dangers of cold weather, to be prepared and spare some time to look out for others.
They also say slip and trip accidents increase during cold weather spells because of conditions such as ice on paths.
They are also calling on people to take sensible measures to avoid requiring emergency care, asking people to look out for vulnerable family or friends, to stock up on any medication they need and to stay up to date with any vaccinations they’re entitled to.
Dr Freda Bhatti, a GP in Colchester, says: “Although it’s no surprise for there to be cold weather at this time of year, we need to remember that cold weather can cause serious illness such as strokes, heart attacks and pneumonia, and can even kill, especially if you have a long-term health condition or are aged over 65.
“Please spare some time for older or vulnerable relatives, friends and neighbours to check that they are doing OK. Ask them whether their heating is working and turned on and they’ve got everything they need in case they are not able to get out next week.
“As well as being an opportunity for ensuring they are safe and warm, popping round for a chat or calling them could really give their wellbeing a boost, as cold weather increases levels of isolation and feelings of loneliness.”
Dr Nicholas Rayner, a GP in Newmarket, says: “One of the best things you can do is take up the offer of vaccination, if you haven’t already done so. COVID is still present and active in our communities and thrives in this colder weather. If you haven’t had your 1st or 2nd dose yet, there is still plenty of opportunity for those aged 5+ to get it done by booking an appointment or going along to a walk in clinic.
“Flu vaccinations too continue to be available. Everyone aged 65 and over, people with certain long-term medical conditions, young children, carers and pregnant women are entitled to a free flu vaccination. Don’t underestimate just how serious flu can be. It can cause deterioration in a long-term health condition and result in an admission to hospital. Flu can cause middle ear and sinus infections in young children and could damage the health of your unborn baby.
“Do please take some simple precautions by making sure you stock up on some essentials that can help you and your family cope with common conditions such as colds, coughs, stomach upsets, flu and earache, and will mean that you are best prepared. Ask your pharmacist for advice on what you should keep at home.
“If you’re feeling unwell, the pharmacy is a great place to go for help and advice and NHS 111 is contactable 24/7 online and ‘phone for help and advice.
“The cold weather always places additional strain on an already very busy NHS, so please do your bit to help us and your community.”
Visit the local NHS winter wellbeing website for useful advice on keeping well this winter and the local vaccination website for information on COVID and flu vaccinations, including times and locations of walk-in clinics.