The Public Health Agency (PHA) has launched its 'Stay Well this Winter' campaign, encouraging people to prepare for colder months by getting vaccinated, practising good hand hygiene and seeking advice from community pharmacists on over-the-counter treatments for minor illnesses.

Running throughout October and November in partnership with the Department of Health and more than 500 community pharmacies, the initiative uses the Living Well service to offer practical guidance in local pharmacies. Advice covers winter vaccinations, keeping warm, effective handwashing and remedies for simple ailments that don't require antibiotics.

Andrew Cheung, Principal Pharmaceutical Officer at the PHA, said: "As we move through the coming months, the weather will be getting colder and winter can bring additional health challenges. This is particularly the case for more vulnerable members of our community, such as older people and those living with long-term conditions such as asthma, diabetes or COPD.

"That's why, through the 'Stay Well this Winter' campaign, we're asking everyone to think ahead, consider the things they can do to help keep themselves and others in better health during the colder months, and speak to their local pharmacist for advice. 

"If you, or someone you know, is eligible for the flu, COVID-19 or RSV vaccinations, we'd encourage you to take up the offer of these free vaccines, which can help reduce the risk of serious illness. 

"As well as vaccination, other simple actions can help you stay well, such as washing your hands regularly, using a tissue when you cough or sneeze, staying active and keeping warm. Together, these simple steps can help you stay well, protect others and support good physical and mental wellbeing." Community pharmacist Joyce Cleland, from Boots Pharmacy in Lisburn, added: "Pharmacists are well positioned in the community to offer advice and support about different health matters that may arise over the winter months. 

"All colds and most coughs, sinusitis, earache and sore throats can get better without antibiotics, so we can recommend over-the-counter medicines for most minor illnesses. You should take your pharmacist or GP's advice and only take antibiotics when you need them. We can provide all the advice you need to stay well this winter, so consider speaking to a pharmacist before going to your GP."

Top tips from the campaign include:

1) 'Catch it. Bin it. Kill it': carry tissues, catch coughs and sneezes, dispose of tissues immediately and wash your hands afterwards.

2) Wash your hands regularly, especially before eating or drinking and after using the toilet.

3) Rest up and stay home if you're unwell to avoid spreading illness. If you have a high temperature, remain at home until you feel better; with diarrhoea and/or vomiting, stay home for at least 48 hours after the last episode.

4) Speak to your pharmacist about suitable over-the-counter remedies; remember antibiotics don't work on viruses.

5) Winter vaccines: if eligible, get your COVID-19, flu or RSV vaccination.

6) Keep warm: wear layers and, where possible, heat your main living room to around 18–21ºC (64–70ºF). Ensure heating is safe and install a carbon monoxide alarm.

7) Eat well by having regular hot meals and drinks to maintain energy and warmth.

8) Keep active: regular exercise supports physical and mental health, lowers the risk of falls and can aid recovery if you do become ill.

9) Seek support: for mental health advice and self-care tips visit www.mindingyourhead.info, and contact your GP if you need further help.

10) Look out for others, including older relatives, friends or neighbours who may need extra assistance over winter.

Further information is available at www.pha.site/Staywellthiswinter.