Mark Greatrex, Wirral Community Health and Care NHS Foundation Trust's interim chief executive, writes for the Globe.

CHRISTMAS is around the corner and winter is well and truly here.

While celebrations and festivities will be different this year, there is one thing that remains the same: we must make extra effort to stay safe and well.

Wintery cold, damp weather can be bad for our health and make us more vulnerable to winter illnesses, but there are plenty of things we can do to try and protect ourselves.

Self-care is the first step to staying well this winter.

Keep warm and hydrated, stay active, eat well and get your flu vaccine - some of the winter tips you hear every year, but the truth in them remains.

Keep warm by layering up, having hot drinks, heating your home to at least 18C (65F) and staying active (try not to sit still for more than an hour or so).

Keep your fridge and cupboards stocked with a variety of food to give you all the nutrients you need - including lots of fresh fruit and vegetables. Likewise, keep your medicines box or cabinet well stocked to aid self-care at home.

Did you know that many over-the-counter medicines relieve symptoms of colds, a sore throat, cough, sinusitis or earache?

If you do feel unwell this winter, visit your local pharmacist who can give you fast, effective advice on how to best treat minor illnesses, without having to seek further care.

If you need medical help, please choose well this Winter. There are many options for minor illnesses and injuries for you and your family.

Our Walk-in Centres and Urgent Treatment Centre are still here for you - they’re just operating a little differently.

They're now using a teletriage and 'appointment only' system.

This means that by calling 0151 201 4190 you will be transferred to a clinician to continue your telephone assessment, and either advised to stay at home and self-care or you will be given an appointment at the most appropriate centre (the phone line is open 8am–10pm, seven days a week, including bank holidays).

Appointments will only be allocated if needed.

You can also contact your GP for non-emergencies for advice or an appointment, or visit the NHS website for guidance on common winter illnesses.

Being proactive, following the safety guidance and choosing well is what will get us all, including the NHS, through this winter.

It is positive news that COVID-19 infection rates have come down and that local businesses can re-open, however, we must not be complacent.

Please continue to follow the Tier two guidance to keep yourself, your loved ones and others safe.

Cases will rise again unless we control this virus in every way we can.

All the information on what Tier two means is available on the Wirral Council website – www.wirral.gov.uk

Remember, choose well and stay safe this Winter.