TAKE good care of yourself this winter and follow medical advice to beat seasonal ills.

Bradford Council, the local NHS and other health-wise organisations are supporting national Self Care Week which runs until this Sunday, urging people to take better care of themselves and their family members, especially during the winter months, when illnesses increase.

Local activities are being held right across the district including Shipley, Keighley, Ilkley and Bradford to get the self care message across.

Marilyn Foster, chairman of the Self Care Steering Group, said: “Self Care is so important to us all, as prevention of ill health is much better than having to find a cure. We all have things to do that are important to us especially over the Christmas period, so why not look now at what we can do to keep ourselves healthy.”

And Cllr Amir Hussain, portfolio holder for health, added: “Eating well, keeping active and making time to spend with friends and family are three of the most important things you can do to look after yourself. Preventing ill health by choosing the right lifestyle options can improve your physical health, mental wellbeing and self-esteem.”

Dr Taz Aldawoud, GP and Clinical Board Member of Bradford Districts NHS Clinical Commissioning Group(CCG) leading on Self-Care said generally, people underestimate the amount of time symptoms last and most coughs and colds can be treated with over the counter medicines. Most colds get better on their own; without treatment from a doctor and antibiotics are ineffective for treating the common cold.”

He said: “If you have a long term condition, prepare for winter by ensuring you don’t run out of your medication. Many pharmacists offer repeat prescription services without the need to see your GP.”