THE NHS in the region is urging North Easterners to "keep calm and look after yourself" to combat the usual winter ailments that are common in usually healthy people.

GPs, who are now in charge of most NHS budgets, are reminding people that many of the common winter ailments and illnesses are easily treated at home or with advice from a pharmacist – with no need to see a doctor or nurse.

The campaign targets people who are usually in good health and perhaps wake up feeling under the weather and don’t know what to do.

Ann Fox, director of nursing for NHS South Tyneside Clinical Commissioning Group said that during the winter months, the demand for NHS services increases significantly, so it is crucial that services are available for those most in need and those who can, self care or visit their local pharmacist.

She said: “Winter weather means more slips and trips – and generally more of us feeling unwell as we spend more time indoors and coughs, colds and other viruses are passed around.

“This all adds up to more of us having an accident or becoming unwell with a winter bug, meaning more people want to see their GP, attend accident and emergency or call 999.

But she added: “There is no need to panic as most normally healthy people with a winter illness do not need to see their GP, attend A&E and call 999 – so our message this winter is ‘keep calm’.

“Colds, sore throats, head-aches, hangovers, upset stomachs, coughs, aches, pains, and winter vomiting should all be treated at home or with the advice of your local pharmacist, with pain killers, rest and plenty of fluids.

The campaign will be seen on regional TV, buses and in GP practices and pharmacies.

For more information visit keepcalmthiswinter.org.uk