Winter is a particularly busy time for hospitals and we would ask the public to help ensure we can prioritise treatment for patients who most need our help.

There is always more pressure on Accident and Emergency (A&E) services at this time of year. Please note A&E is for emergencies and serious illnesses and we would urge our patients to consider all other options before attending - these are set out at the end of this message.

It is particularly important that otherwise healthy patients with flu-like symptoms do not attend A&E as there is a significant chance they will infect others. The best treatment advice for flu is to stay at home, treat symptoms with medicines such as paracetamol and drink plenty of fluids. If necessary people should seek telephone advice from NHS Direct or a GP surgery.

We would also urge anyone with flu-like symptoms or other illnesses such as diarrhoea and vomiting to avoid visiting relatives or friends who are in hospital. If in any doubt please stay away and keep your germs at home.

Treatment options to consider:

• West Yorkshire Urgent Care Services – for unexpected or worsening health conditions call 0345 605 99 99 or visit www.wyucservices.nhs.uk 
• Self-care — for treatment of minor illnesses, by combining a well stocked medicine cabinet with plenty of rest. For more information please visit www.nhs.uk
• NHS Direct — for absolutely any health questions, around the clock, and to find local services. 0845 4647 or visit www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk  
  
• Pharmacist — for advice on common winter illnesses, and the best medicines to treat them
• Family doctor (GP) — for medical advice, examinations and prescriptions for illnesses you just can’t shake off
  
• NHS Walk-in Centre — for treatment of minor illnesses or injuries, without an appointment
• A&E or 999 — for critical or life-threatening situations