Looking after your health this winter

Start with the everyday essentials

Cold weather and shorter days can make healthy routines harder to maintain. Regular meals, enough sleep and gentle daily movement all support the immune system and help you recover from minor illness.

Keep your home comfortably warm and check in with relatives or neighbours who may be more vulnerable in colder weather. If you take regular medicines, order in good time so weekends and bank holidays do not leave you short.

• Keep hydrated, even when you do not feel thirsty
• Wash hands regularly and use tissues for coughs and sneezes
• Keep rooms ventilated while maintaining a safe temperature

Treating coughs, colds and sore throats

Most coughs and colds improve with rest, fluids and time. A pharmacist can help you choose treatments that are suitable alongside your existing medicines and health conditions.

Antibiotics do not work for viral infections. If symptoms become severe, persist longer than expected or include breathing difficulty, chest pain or confusion, seek urgent clinical advice.

• Ask before combining cold remedies to avoid duplicate ingredients
• Read the label and follow the stated dose
• Speak to us if symptoms are not improving

Vaccination and prevention

Seasonal vaccinations reduce the risk of serious illness for eligible people. NHS eligibility can change each season, so ask the pharmacy team or check current NHS guidance.

Good prevention is also about acting early. A quick conversation with a pharmacist can help you decide whether self-care is appropriate or whether you should contact another service.