Top doctor issues warning about vital A&E mistake made every year by people suffering winter illnesses
It's hardly a surprise anymore when Brits receive their annual warning from doctors that the winter months prove rife for illness, and that caution should be approached by those with chronic conditions.
One GP is doing things differently this time around, however, by advising people what not to do as the colder months approach.
Common colds, coughs, and sniffles are often associated with changes in the weather, especially as we get closer to Christmas.
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Tyla also warned earlier this year that coronavirus is still very much around, with the NHS previously declaring that most people infected with it will experience 'mild to moderate respiratory illness' in the coming weeks.
Medics are recommending vaccinations to those who haven't yet received one as the yearly spike in influenza approaches, and a recent report covering September to October found that norovirus - the dreaded 'vomiting bug' - has 'started to increase in recent weeks'.
On top of this, the brutal weather at this time of year often means it can be difficult for patients to get themselves to pharmacies and chemists for medication, and the festive period sees hospital staff low on the ground year after year.
That said, however - and with 'sign of the times' illnesses in mind - one top UK GP has this week issued a warning about the correct way to receive medical care, saying that simply dragging yourself to your local A&E could actually do more harm than good.
Speaking to press, Professor Julian Redhead - an NHS national clinical director for urgent and emergency care - announced that A&E attendance numbers are at an all time high, and in turn, as are waiting times, when they absolutely do not need to be.
Instead, he says that patients worried about their health should always begin by making a call to 111, where a member of medical staff will be able to offer them some initial advice.
"As we approach the busiest time of year for A&Es, we want to make sure that all patients are getting the safest possible care which is why we are launching our campaign encouraging everyone to ‘get to the help they need’ by using NHS 111 online or telephone services this winter," Redhead told press this week.
"We know that up to two-fifths of A&E attendances could be better treated elsewhere, as well as one in six calls to 999 just needing advice over the phone, so I really want to encourage everyone to use our free, around the clock 111 service that can give millions of people this winter fast, safe and easy access to the advice or treatment they need."
Statistics recorded by NHS England found that a considerable amount of recent A&E attendances could have been handled more effectively on the phone, or by using the official NHS app.
He added that, while some callers might still be told to head over to A&E, a huge proportion of ailments can be either of these two ways, with advice and prescriptions both being offered to those who need them.
"Our plans for winter include easier access to urgent treatment centres and community care," the GP explained.
"And so whether 111 gives you over the phone clinical advice, directs you to a pharmacist, GP team or community provider, or arranges a call with a nurse or paramedic, by using it you can help us ensure everyone is getting the care they need.
"And as ever, it is vital that the public use 999 and A&E in life-threatening situations."
Rhianna Benson