An Ayrshire nurse is urging people to make health a priority this holiday season and has shared her top tips for staying well over the festive break.

Karan has been a nurse for more than thirty years and is now a clinical services manager at NHS 24.

She helps people from across Scotland who need to call the 111 service for urgent or unscheduled care.

She’s used to working unsociable hours so working this Christmas is not unusual for her and her family adapts to make sure they can still enjoy the festivities.

Karan says planning is key to enjoying the festivities, and not just for those working over the holidays.

She explained: “My festive top tip is plan, plan, plan – and not just for the fun stuff. 

"No one wants to be ill over Christmas but unfortunately it is that time of year when seasonal viruses such as colds, flu and tummy bugs are around.

"I would advise people to make sure they are exercising good hand hygiene to try and reduce the spread of these infections.

"It is a good idea to make sure you have plenty of paracetamol, ibuprofen, and things like cough medicine at home to treat symptoms if you are unlucky enough to become unwell. 

“It is also important to make sure that people have plenty of their prescribed medication and check that repeat prescriptions are up to date, as GP surgeries and pharmacies will be closed for a few days over the festive period.

“We know the 111 service is going to be busy, so to avoid having to wait for advice I would recommend using NHS inform or the NHS 24 Online app first.

“By following my tips and advice I hope more people experience fun, health and happiness over the holiday. On behalf of NHS 24, I wish you all a very merry Christmas.” 

For more information about winter health visit NHSinform.scot/winter.