Simple steps to protect yourself and others this Christmas

As people prepare for Christmas and New Year, health and social care staff will be on the front line, ready to treat those in most urgent need.

To help with the challenges around increasing demand, the Northern Trust is reminding the public of the steps to take to ensure that you and those around you can stay well during the festive season.

Winter illnesses such as colds, flu, COVID-19, and norovirus spread more easily when people gather indoors. By taking a few sensible precautions, everyone can enjoy the celebrations while reducing the risk of illness.

Simple steps to stay well this Christmas:

• Prescriptions – Remember to order your repeat prescriptions prior to your GP practice closing for the holidays.
• If you’re not feeling well, stay home – Avoid social gatherings if you have symptoms such as fever, cough, sore throat, vomiting, or diarrhoea. Resting helps you recover and protects others.
• Wash your hands regularly – Use soap and warm water, especially before eating or preparing food, and after using the bathroom.
• Cover coughs and sneezes – Use a tissue or your elbow, and wash your hands afterwards.
• It’s not too late to get vaccinated – Flu and COVID-19 vaccines remain an effective way to reduce serious illness. If you’re eligible for vaccination then don’t delay, get your vaccine as soon as you can.
• Checking in on others – If you’re worried or concerned about someone else, talk to them. Ask them how they’re feeling and if there’s anything you can do to help them.

Cahal Bradley, a charge nurse based at Antrim Area Hospital, said: “Christmas is about caring for one another. Staying at home when you’re unwell and taking simple precautions are acts of kindness that help protect our families, friends, and communities.

“We are encouraging people to plan ahead, prioritise health and consider postponing social occasions if you’re not feeling well, so that everyone can enjoy a safer and happier festive season.

“We are also asking visitors to our hospitals to be mindful of the needs of all our patients. Many of those in our hospitals will be vulnerable with weakened immune systems, it’s important that we all do what we can to ensure their safety.

“First and foremost, if you are unwell with a cough, cold or flu-like illness, or if you have symptoms of diarrhoea and vomiting, please don’t visit loved ones until you are feeling better. This is the best thing that you can do for them.”

The Northern Trust is also asking all visitors to consider wearing a mask to help limit the spread of winter viruses, and if attending our Emergency Departments and you need to be accompanied, we would ask that you only bring one relative or friend to avoid overcrowding.

Notes to editors:

1. GP opening hours over Christmas and New Year – GP practices will be closed on: Thursday 25 December 2025, Friday 26 December 2025 and Thursday 1 January 2026.
2. GP Out of Hours – This service is for urgent medical care when your GP surgery is closed. Find your local GP out of hours service on NI Direct.
3. Pharmacy rota – Over the Christmas and New Year holidays, Pharmacies will operate on a rota basis. The rota is available at online: https://bso.hscni.net/pharmacy-support-links/weekly-holiday-rotas/

19th December 2025