Health officials urge people to take extra precautions during busy winter period as cold snap hits
Tuesday, 30 December 2025
As Cheshire and Merseyside braces for plunging temperatures and the NHS enters one of its busiest periods of the year, one of the region's leading doctors is urging the public to take precautions and access services appropriately.
Dr Paula Cowan, Wirral GP and Regional Medical Director for Primary Care at NHS England in the North West, warns that the combination of cold weather and increased demand between Christmas and New Year means it's more important than ever to seek help early and use the right NHS services.
Following an amber cold weather alert issued by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) from 8pm on Sunday 28 December to midday on Monday 5 January, Dr Cowan said:
“The period between Christmas and New Year is always one of the busiest times for the NHS, and this year we're also dealing with a significant cold snap.
“Demand for NHS services typically rises during this period, and the public is urged to play their part by coming forward for care and using the right service for their needs, to ensure services are available for those with urgent and emergency needs.
“If it’s not an emergency, but you need urgent advice and treatment or you’re unsure where to go, use NHS 111 online, which can be accessed at 111.nhs.uk or via the NHS App, to check your symptoms and be directed to the right place.
“When temperatures drop, people with long-term health conditions, particularly those affecting the heart and lungs, are most at risk. The cold can make it more difficult to breathe and we see increases in pneumonia and flu. It's vitally important that anyone feeling unwell seeks support as soon as possible. Getting help early can often mean the difference between being treated at home and needing hospital care – and we know at this time of year, people would much rather be at home with their loved ones.
“By taking practical steps to stay well and using the right services when we need them, we can all play our part in supporting the NHS during this busy period. This allows our healthcare professionals, who are continuing to work extremely hard, to focus on those who need them most.”
Getting vaccinated, preparing a well-stocked medicine cabinet and taking precautions to prevent the spread of respiratory illnesses are some of the most important things people can do to stay well during the current cold spell and throughout the coming months.
Across the North West, the NHS offers free winter vaccinations to help protect from illnesses including flu and RSV to eligible groups, reducing the risk of severe illness and complications. Eligible people can book winter vaccines via the NHS website, NHS App, community pharmacy or their GP practice.
Simple steps to stay safe:
- Keep your home heated to at least 18°C if you're elderly or vulnerable
- Wear hats, gloves, and warm indoor footwear like slippers
- Stay active indoors with gentle movement to improve circulation
- Check on vulnerable friends, family and neighbours
Accessing the right NHS services:
- If it’s not an emergency, but you need urgent advice and treatment or you’re unsure where to go, NHS 111 online, which can be accessed at 111.nhs.uk or via the NHS App, can help.
- Community pharmacies, GP practices and other services remain open and can provide advice and treatment for many minor illnesses without the need for an appointment. A&E should be reserved for life-threatening emergencies.
Dr Fiona Lemmens, Deputy Medical Director at NHS Cheshire and Merseyside, said:
“As cold weather persists throughout the rest of the week, it is important to check in on the wellbeing of those most vulnerable. Cold weather can have a serious impact on health, including for older people, young children and those with certain long-term health conditions, as it increases the risks of heart attacks, strokes, and chest infections.
“It is important to try and heat your home to at least 18°C if you can, and to take other measures to protect yourself such as wearing lots of layers.
“Keep in touch with others and ask if they need any practical help such as stocking up on food and medicine. If you're worried about someone else's health, contact your local pharmacist, your GP or NHS 111 for advice and support.”
Be prepared at home:
- Making sure essential items are available at home can make a big difference in managing minor illnesses and avoiding unnecessary trips to general practice or A&E.
- Medicine cabinet essentials include pain relief, cold and flu remedies, throat lozenges, antihistamines, and basic first aid items like plasters and antiseptic cream. These items can be easily purchased from a supermarket or local pharmacy. If you have medicines in your cabinet already, don't forget to check the expiry dates and replace anything that's out of date.
- Simple actions such as regularly washing your hands after you have been out, used the bathroom and before eating, and ventilating indoor areas can reduce the risk of catching a bug. Staying at home if you feel unwell can help protect yourself and those around you.
For more information on how to stay healthy this winter and to book your vaccinations, visit www.nhs.uk/staywell.