Health chiefs are urging people to stay well this winter - and to choose the right service if they do get ill.

Medics have issued the advice and are reassuring people that they will be working hard to deliver the best possible care over winter, while reminding them that they can help both themselves and local services by being prepared and using the most appropriate service when they need help or advice.

Dorset CCG has the following advice:

Get protected against flu
The best way to avoid getting the flu is by having the vaccination, doing so reduces the risk of developing the illness significantly. Many GP Practices hold large flu vaccination clinics. It is best to find out dates and times by checking on Practice websites or by telephoning the Practice direct.

Put off visiting hospital if you have flu like symptoms or norovirus
You should not visit hospital if you have had or have been in contact with someone who has flu like symptoms: fever, coughing, sore throat, runny nose, headache, muscle aches and pains or vomiting and diarrhoea within the last 48 hours. If you do, you could be putting vulnerable people at risk. 

Be prepared
Stock up your medicine cabinet, so that you have self-help medicines such as a first aid kit, paracetamol and a thermometer, in case you need them whilst the pharmacies are closed. Your pharmacist will be able to advise you on what to keep in the house.
If you’re planning a trip, ensure you don’t run out of your prescribed medicines whilst you are away. Let your GP practice and pharmacist know in plenty of time before your departure.
If you have difficulty ordering your medicines, discuss with your pharmacist or GP practice to see how they can help you.

Use your local pharmacy 
Headaches, coughs, colds and upset stomach can be treated at a local pharmacy – pharmacists are clinically trained and have private consulting rooms. There are over 150 pharmacies in Dorset - find your nearest one using the search facility at www.nhs.uk

Use your local urgent care service
Use your local urgent care service if you have a sprain, strain, cuts or bruises or for assessment and treatment of non-life-threatening injuries and illness for adults and children. There are seven Minor Injuries Units in Dorset and a Community Urgent Care Centre in Weymouth. A list of locations and opening times can be found via www.dorsethealthcare.nhs.uk

Make use of NHS 111
If you are not sure where to go or just need advice call NHS 111 which is free 24 hours a day, seven days a week. When you call 111 you will speak to a highly trained adviser, supported by healthcare professionals; they will ask you a series of questions to assess your symptoms and immediately direct you to the best medical care for your needs. 

Only use Emergency Departments or call 999 in a genuine emergency
Please only use Emergency Departments or call 999 in a genuine emergency or a serious or life threatening situation, this allows clinicians to treat people who are in genuine need.