Advice on Medications and Medical Appointments

Medications

Keep extra supplies of essential medication in case it is difficult to get to the doctor or pharmacy.
Store medicines at the recommended temperature (read the storage instructions on the packaging).
Store medicines in their original containers or packaging and keep out of sight and reach of children.

Medical Appointments

If travel services or roads are disrupted due to bad weather, you may need to change planned visits to hospital or other health centres for appointments. Even a planned operation may need to be changed.
If severe disruption occurs, some health services may have to change their opening times.
If you have a question about a planned appointment, phone the hospital or clinic that you are due to attend to check on any changes to services.

What to Do if You or Others Feel Unwell

As temperatures fall, emergency departments become busier and there are increased hospital admissions.

Common illnesses like sore throats, colds, earaches and fevers in children can be managed at home without needing to go to a GP or Emergency Department for treatment.
See the HSE website for tips on how to treat common illnesses at home.
If you are worried about your health during a cold snap and feel you need treatment, contact your GP for advice.
If you feel very unwell or have any unusual symptoms, you should attend your local emergency department.
Know your EIRCODE so that emergency services can easily find you in an emergency.

Last Updated: 8 January 2024