With the peak summer season almost upon us, a new NHS campaign to help people stay well over the next few weeks has been launched today (1 July 2025) in Norfolk, Suffolk and north east Essex.

Hot weather can cause significant heat-related harm, particularly for older people, those with long-term health conditions and others who are vulnerable. However, many common summer health problems and difficulties can be prevented by taking a few simple steps.

Dr Frankie Swords, Executive Medical Director NHS Norfolk and Waveney ICB and Interim Chief Medical Officer NHS Suffolk and North East Essex Integrated Care Board (ICB), said: “All skin types can burn so use a high factor sun cream and reapply it regularly throughout the day. This will help protect you from skin cancer. In the middle of the day the sun’s UV rays are at their highest, so cover up with lightweight, loose and long clothing or, better still, nip inside or find some shade.

“In really hot weather, it’s essential everyone drinks plenty of non-alcoholic drinks to stay hydrated. Dehydration can lead to confusion and loss of balance particularly in vulnerable people like the very old, the very young and those with some medical conditions. That makes people more likely to fall over and injure themselves. Alcoholic drinks can actually dehydrate you so if you do drink alcohol, remember to swap out a few of those for something that’s alcohol-free, particularly when the weather is hot.

“If you’re going away for a summer break in the UK or abroad and you’re on prescription medications, make sure you take them with you. Put in your order for any repeat prescriptions 7 to 10 days before you run out and well before you go away so you’re not caught short. If you need asthma inhalers, treatments for allergies, or angina medicines, remember to bring them with you, even when you’re out for just the day. They are no good if they’re not with you!

“Planning ahead is sensible too. Keep some basic first aid supplies at home and consider taking them away with you as well. Antiseptic cream, plasters, insect bite relief, paracetamol and after-sun cream are all handy to have around, just in case.”

For many common summer ailments, think Pharmacy First. Community pharmacists can treat conditions such as sunburn, hay fever, insect bites and stings, cuts and grazes and stomach upsets. No appointment is needed and many pharmacies are open for business in the evenings and at weekends. You can find your nearest pharmacy.

Anyone feeling unwell and unsure what to do, including anyone who needs urgent dental care, should contact NHS 111. They can help you get the care you need from the best place and will nearly always save you time.

NHS 111 can also help with urgent supplies of some emergency prescriptions. Go online at Emergency prescriptions – NHS 111 or call 111.

999 and A&E are emergency services and should only be used when someone has a serious or life-threatening illness or injury. Otherwise, you will need to wait longer and so will those who really need emergency care.

Dr Swords added, “I love the summer and it’s great when people can be outside enjoying the good weather, whether they’re on the beach, in a park or in their garden. I hope these useful tips will help people to carry on enjoying themselves all summer long.”

For more information, please visit: www.staywellthissummer.co.uk