Health officials in Dumfries and Galloway are urging the public to only visit accident and emergency departments if they have a life-threatening illness or injury. The departments in Dumfries and Stranraer are expected to remain busy for some time, prompting the advice to seek help from alternative sources such as NHS Inform, pharmacies, and GPs. This comes as the A&E department at DGRI has been consistently operating beyond capacity.
Director of public health Valerie White emphasised the importance of seeking medical help wisely in a video shared on the NHS Dumfries and Galloway Facebook page. She highlighted that many common winter illnesses can be managed at home and pointed to resources like the NHS Inform website for guidance. White also encouraged utilising local pharmacies for medications and advice, contacting NHS 24 helpline by dialling 111, and consulting one’s GP practice for professional advice.
During the festive season, a restriction on non-essential visits to DGRI was enforced to tackle the influx of flu cases. Visitors to hospital were reminded to consider the health of patients and to refrain from visiting if experiencing any symptoms of illness. Vaccination against flu, covid, or RSV was also recommended for those eligible, with further details available on the NHS Dumfries and Galloway website and hotline.
To address the challenge of staying warm and healthy during the cold months, White advised dressing appropriately for the weather and accessing support for high heating bills through resources like Citizens Advice. The public was reminded to exercise caution in snowy and icy conditions and to prioritise safety when outdoors.
In conclusion, it is crucial for individuals to be mindful of their health needs and to make informed decisions when seeking medical assistance. By following the guidance provided by health officials and accessing the available resources, everyone can contribute to easing the strain on A&E departments and prioritising care for those with life-threatening conditions.