15/12/2025
Winter Viruses – Including Influenza A and COVID-19
Advice for Patients
Please read this information carefully and use self-care and pharmacy advice where appropriate. This helps us prioritise patients with serious symptoms or underlying health conditions.
WHAT ARE WINTER VIRUSES?
· Common cold – runny nose, sore throat, mild cough.
· Influenza (Flu) – sudden onset of fever, chills, muscle aches, headache, fatigue, cough.
· COVID-19 – symptoms can include fever, cough, sore throat, loss of taste or smell, fatigue, and sometimes shortness of breath.
· Other viral infections – may cause similar symptoms.
These illnesses are usually self-limiting, meaning they get better on their own within 7–10 days. At the moment we have many patients contacting after only a few hours or a few days of experiencing symptoms.
Self-Care at Home
Most symptoms can be managed with rest and fluids. Please try:
· Rest – allow your body time to recover.
· Fluids – drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
· Pain relief – paracetamol or ibuprofen for fever, aches, and pains (follow packet instructions).
· Warm drinks and honey – can soothe sore throats and coughs.
· Avoid antibiotics – they do not work against viruses.
For detailed flu self-help advice, visit:
https://www.nhsinform.scot/.../infections-and-poisoning/flu/
HELP FROM YOUR LOCAL PHARMACY
Pharmacists can advise on:
· Over-the-counter remedies for coughs, sore throats, and congestion.
· Pain relief and fever management.
Many pharmacies now have trained prescribers who can treat a range of conditions, including chest infections, and supply antibiotics if clinically appropriate.
Pharmacies are a great first point of contact for minor illnesses and some more significant conditions.
WHEN TO SEEK MEDICAL HELP – RED FLAGS
Call the practice on 01294 832523
· Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath.
· Chest pain.
· Severe headache or confusion.
· Persistent high fever (above 39°C) not improving with medication.
· Symptoms lasting more than 10 days or suddenly worsening.
· Signs of dehydration (very little urine, dizziness).
· Pregnant, very young, elderly, or have long-term health conditions (e.g., diabetes, heart or lung disease).
CALL 999 IF:
· You are struggling to breathe.
· You have severe chest pain.
· You collapse or become unresponsive.
PREVENTING WINTER VIRUSES
· Wash hands regularly.
· Catch coughs and sneezes in a tissue.
· Stay home if you are unwell.
· Consider flu and COVID vaccinations if eligible.
FURTHER INFORMATION
Visit NHS Inform for trusted advice:
https://www.nhsinform.scot
NHS inform is Scotland's national health information service helping the people in Scotland to make informed decisions about their own health and the health of the people they care for
