The Department of Health is reminding the public to play an active role in maintaining their health and wellbeing this winter, as existing pressures on health and social care services have the potential to rise further during the coming months.

Speaking during National Self-Care Week, Health Minister Mike Nesbitt stressed that every individual action, no matter how small, can make a big difference in helping to protect against the effects of seasonal viruses and infections.

Minister Nesbitt encouraged the public to leverage community resources, stating: "Community Pharmacies are also a great source of information, particularly for minor illnesses and ailments, through the Pharmacy First service. Speak to your local pharmacist if you need advice around colds, flu and sore throats. You do not need an appointment for this." The Pharmacy First Service provides confidential consultations on common illnesses in a private area of the pharmacy, where symptoms can be assessed and treatment may be given.

The Minister also focused on mental health, noting that the festive period "can be a difficult, sometimes lonely period for a lot of people." He encouraged the public to check in on friends and older neighbours to offer help and support.

Chief Medical Officer, Professor Sir Michael McBride, echoed the advice, emphasising that providing resources for self-care helps equip people to make healthier choices and "ease the burden on our health and social care services."

Professor McBride strongly encouraged everyone eligible to get vaccinated against Covid-19 and the flu. He also promoted longer-term health improvements, advising people to consider using services to help them stop smoking, reduce their alcohol intake, and increase their physical activity.

Further self-care advice on keeping warm, keeping moving, and eating well can be accessed online via the NI Direct, HSC, and Public Health Agency websites.