Cornwall Urged to Act Now as Winter Illnesses Spread

With flu and COVID-19 already affecting people across Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, NHS Cornwall and Isles of Scilly is calling on everyone to do their bit to help stop the spread and to take up seasonal vaccinations ahead of winter.

Simple Steps to Stay Well

The NHS is advising people to stay home and rest if they feel unwell, rather than visiting others or attending hospitals and care homes.

Most winter illnesses can be treated at home with rest, fluids, and keeping warm. The NHS also reminds people not to attend emergency departments or minor injury units if they suspect flu, COVID-19, or norovirus.

For anyone unsure about what to do, the NHS recommends using the NHS 111 online service for advice before visiting a health setting.

Washing hands regularly remains one of the simplest and most effective ways to prevent illness. Parents are urged to ensure young children wash their hands before eating, after using the toilet, and after being in public places. Hand sanitiser can be useful when soap and water aren’t available, but it’s not effective against all viruses such as norovirus.

Caring for Unwell Children

As colder weather arrives, children often pick up seasonal bugs. Most colds and coughs are viral and can be cared for at home.

According to NHS Cornwall and Isles of Scilly, colds usually last 5 to 7 days, though coughs may linger longer. If a child’s breathing is normal and they seem well otherwise, a lingering cough isn’t usually a cause for concern.

The NHS also recognises that caring for an ill child can be exhausting and reminds parents to rest when possible and seek help from others for short breaks.

Families can find more information and advice on what to eat, drink, and how to help children rest and sleep.

Should Your Child Go to School?

Deciding whether to send a child to nursery or school when they are unwell can be difficult.

Parents can find guidance from the government on when to keep children off school or nursery here.

Getting Medical Help

If you need advice about a child’s illness or minor injury, your health visitor, nurse practitioner, GP or pharmacist can help.

GPs can assess symptoms and prescribe medication, while some pharmacists, nurses and health visitors can diagnose and treat common illnesses.

The NHS recommends trying a local pharmacy first, as pharmacists can advise whether a GP appointment is needed.

If a child shows signs of serious illness, parents should contact their GP surgery directly, visit the local emergency department, or use the NHS 111 service for guidance.

Most GP surgeries in Cornwall are supportive of parents with young children, often offering same-day appointments for babies or phone advice from doctors.

Knowing When to Act

Dr Chris Reid, Chief Medical Officer for NHS Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Integrated Care Board, said:

“It’s important you trust your instincts and get the help your child needs. Not getting the advice and treatment at the right time could put your child at risk of serious illness.

If your child already has a health condition (such as asthma, diabetes, epilepsy) look out for warning signs that their condition is less well controlled. Follow the advice given to you by the medical team that looks after your child.”

For more guidance on managing children’s illnesses at home, visit the NHS webpage on looking after a sick child.

If symptoms worsen, parents are urged to call 111 for advice.

Think Before You Go

When seeking medical help at weekends, the NHS reminds people to think “Where is best?” before attending busy emergency departments.

More information on vaccination and immunisation programmes across Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, including COVID-19 and MMR, is available here