Our Health Information Advisors continue to be busy in the autumn, and last year answered an average of around 29,000 calls each autumn month. After summer has drawn to a close we receive more calls about winter illnesses, such as seasonal flu, colds and coughs.
Many people want to know how long they are infectious for and whether it is safe to visit friends and relatives. Advice varies for different conditions – for example, seasonal flu is typically infectious for three to five days after the symptoms first appear, whereas a cold is typically infectious from about one day before symptoms appear to between one and three days afterwards.
Some people also want to know how to avoid these illnesses. You can help your immune system by eating lots of fresh fruit and vegetables, taking plenty of exercise and aiming for around seven to eight hours of sleep a night.
As the weather gets colder callers often need information on how to stay warm, and this is particularly important for older people. Heat your home to between 18-21°C, ensure you eat well throughout the day, and investigate grants and benefits to make your home more energy efficient.
At this time of the year, NHS Direct also receives enquiries about the dangers of children eating autumn berries. Certain berries and leaves can be poisonous, and it’s important to know what’s growing in your garden. Consider removing any poisonous plants, especially if you have young children.
