The NHS is launching a new information campaign ahead of winter to assist the public in accessing medical advice as quick as possible. People in need of advice from the NHS are encouraged to go to NHS 111’s online service if they have urgent, but not life-threatening, medical issues. Patients should continue to come forward for care and are still being encouraged to speak to a Pharmacist, GP or call 111 if they need urgent advice.
People use the online 111 service for a range of reasons, including to check their symptoms and if an injury or illness requires further investigation, to get information on mental health support services available, or to seek advice on how to take a medication.
Those eligible for booster vaccination shots are highly encouraged to take up this offer of extra protection during the winter months. Over eight million people in the UK have now received COVID-19 booster jabs. More than 820,000 boosters were administered from 29 – 1 November.
“It’s never been easier to get your boost with walk-in sites across the country now open for those eligible – if it’s been six months since your second dose, get your booster as soon as you can”, said Health and Care Secretary Sajid Javid.
The NHS ‘Help Us to Help You’ campaign will be running on TV advertisements, social media posts and billboards to promote the online service ahead of a winter season that has been predicted to be ‘extremely tough’ by Prof Stephen Powis, NHS Medical Director.
