Campaign targets those more vunerable to illness in borough

AS WINTER bug season gets underway health chiefs in charge of services in Hinckley and Bosworth are offering selfcare advice to members of the public.

A special week-long campaign sees the experts at the area’s clinical commissioning group (CCG) target those who may be more vulnerable to illness.

The aim is to build patients’ confidence in preventing and treating minor ailments and ensure they are better equipped to take control of their own health this winter and for life.

It also means less pressure on NHS services which are often stretched.

The campaign will feature videos and information which will appear on the website www.staywell-llr.org.uk

There will be a focus on children, older people, those with long term conditions and mental problems and carers.

Treating coughs and colds and appropriate use of antibiotics will also be tackled.

The campaign is being put together by Leicester City CCG on behalf of its partner organisations across the county and Rutland.

Professor Azhar Farooqi, a GP and chairman of Leicester City CCG, said: “Patients often come to see me in my practice wanting me to help them with a minor illness or looking for some reassurance.

“In most cases patients are more capable than they think of taking care of their illnesses independently, they just lack the confidence to do so.

“With this campaign we wanted to provide patients with the knowledge they need, all in one easy place, so they can start to take control of their own health both now and for the rest of their lives.”

Prof Farooqi added if, after self care, symptoms did not improve then a GP appointment should be sought or contact made with NHS 111 which can provide advice to callers as well as referrals or book services.