THURSDAY, 08 DECEMBER, 2022

For immediate release. Accompanying video from Dr Andy Reddick can be found at: https://youtu.be/tsdexr0KTN8

NHS Tayside is ready for winter - are you?

NHS Tayside is gearing up for winter and making preparations to meet the challenges that winter brings. The public can also support local health and care services by making sure they are winter ready.

Winter is a very busy time for health and social care services, as Tayside’s doctors, nurses and other teams continue to manage the impact of COVID-19, alongside flu and other winter illnesses.

NHS Tayside has plans in place which have been developed by clinical teams in partnership with Angus, Dundee and Perth & Kinross Health and Social Care Partnerships and the Scottish Ambulance Service.

Emergency Medicine Consultant, and Clinical Service Director for winter, Dr Andy Reddick said, “Our multi-agency winter planning helps us make the best use of our resources by managing and planning for the expected increase in demand for health and social care services in the coming weeks and winter months.

“In Tayside, we use data from across our health services to build a ‘heat map’ which helps predict periods when we expect our services to be very busy. This heat map gives services a warning of predicted increases in activity and enables them to put their plans in place to respond to challenges and keep services running.

“Even though COVID rules and restrictions have been lifted in Scotland, the virus has not gone away and everyone needs to play their part by protecting themselves and others.

“Central to our plans is our winter vaccination programme for patients and health and social care staff to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and flu in our hospitals, healthcare facilities and local communities. This will also help us to maintain staffing levels during busy periods. We would encourage everyone who is eligible to get their winter vaccinations. It’s not too late to book your appointment.

“People can also do their bit to help us. We’re urging everyone to make sure they can look after themselves at home with the usual winter illnesses such as colds and diarrhoea and vomiting. Make sure your medicine cabinet is well stocked with over-the-counter medicines. Your local community pharmacy can also help with a range of minor illnesses, such as a cold, an upset stomach or general aches and pains.

NHS 24 has also developed a new mobile app where you can find out more about your symptoms, tips on self-care and what to do if your condition worsens. You can download the NHS 24 Online app from Google Play and the App Store.

“Remember to follow the latest guidance if you are feeling unwell. Socialise in well ventilated spaces where possible. Please help us by staying well and keeping safe this winter.”

You can find a host of useful information on NHS Tayside’s dedicated website www.keepwellinwinter.scot.nhs.uk which is a one-stop-shop to help you stay safe and healthy this weather. You can also get the most up-to-date information by following us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @NHSTayside.

Contact:

Cara Longmuir

NHS Tayside Communications

(01382) 740716