Sign in Subscribe
COVID-19

NHS Issues Health Advice for Families Ahead of Half Term

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

The NHS in Dorset is warning families to be vigilant as winter bugs start to spread. With the October half term approaching, the health service is urging parents and caregivers to know where to go for help to avoid unnecessary trips to emergency departments. The NHS is also encouraging families to take advantage of free flu and COVID-19 vaccination clinics running throughout the holidays.

Key Takeaways:

  • The NHS in Dorset is cautioning parents and caregivers to be aware of winter bugs, especially as the weather turns, and to know where to go for help to avoid busy emergency departments.
  • The health service is encouraging families to keep up to date with vaccinations, including flu and COVID-19 vaccinations, which can help keep children and family members safe.
  • Many pharmacies are open in the evenings and at weekends and are running special walk-in flu clinics for two and three year olds, offering the free nasal spray vaccination.
  • The NHS is advising families to think pharmacy first for most minor illnesses and to use online or call service 111 pathways if unsure.
  • Keeping good hand hygiene, covering coughs and sneezes, ventilating rooms, and making sure routine childhood vaccinations are up to date can also make a big difference this season.

Parents can book a flu or COVID-19 vaccination appointment at a pharmacy or via the NHS website.

Dr. Paul Johnson, chief medical officer for NHS Dorset ICB, is quoted as saying "Knowing where to go for help means you can act quickly and avoid unnecessary trips to busy emergency departments."

Statistics:

  • 2 and 3-year-olds can receive the free nasal spray flu vaccination at special walk-in clinics at pharmacies.
  • Flu and COVID-19 vaccination walk-in clinics are open during the half-term holiday for eligible groups, including older children, teenagers, and adults at higher risk.
  • Most minor illnesses can be treated at pharmacies.

*Making sure routine childhood vaccinations are up to date can keep children and family safe this winter.

Sources:

  • The NHS in Dorset (https://www.nhs.uk/services/your-nhs-services/dorset)
  • Dr. Paul Johnson, Chief Medical Officer, NHS Dorset ICB (no date provided in the original text)

Read more