Parents and carers on the Isle of Wight are being encouraged to take simple steps to help keep their families well this winter, as coughs, colds and flu continue to circulate.
The Isle of Wight NHS Trust has issued guidance on how to manage minor illnesses and where to seek help when needed, aiming to ease pressure on local health services and support families with practical advice.
Pharmacies remain a key source of help, offering medication and advice for symptoms such as sore throats, urinary tract infections and earache – often without the need for a GP appointment. NHS 111 Online is also available to direct people to the most appropriate care for their symptoms.
Becky Hepworth, Children’s Ward Matron at Isle of Wight NHS Trust, has said:
“We want parents and carers to feel confident in finding the advice or additional support they need when a child is unwell and with the weather getting colder, there are lots of bugs already doing the rounds.
“The Healthier Together app is a great place to start for non-emergency queries, while your local pharmacy can also provide a wealth of support close to home. If you aren’t sure which service is right, NHS 111 for children under 5 years old or 111 Online for children over 5 can help get you get the right care for your symptoms.
“We know how worrying it can be when your child is poorly or you are concerned about their wellbeing. There are things you can do to help self-care at home for many minor illnesses or injuries, but please always reach out for additional support if you are concerned your child may be getting worse or need more urgent medical attention.”
To support families through the colder months, the Trust has also released a free downloadable activity sheet, designed to keep children busy with colouring and games while offering helpful winter health tips. Families are encouraged to display the sheet at home and share their creations with the Trust’s communications team.
Some key winter wellness tips include:
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Download the Healthier Together app for advice on common illnesses, when to seek further help, and support during pregnancy and beyond
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Teach children good hygiene, including regular hand washing and using tissues for coughs and sneezes
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Keep children off school if they have a temperature, vomiting, diarrhoea or symptoms of infectious illnesses like measles or chickenpox
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Stay up to date with vaccinations to protect against common but serious illnesses
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Stock your medicine cabinet with essentials such as a thermometer, children’s paracetamol, ibuprofen and teething gels
Best tip, if you have a cold stay at home
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