Antrim Area Hospital nurse urges public to take simple steps to protect others this Christmas
- Love Ballymena
- 39 minutes ago
- 3 min read
Cahal Bradley, a charge nurse based at Antrim Area Hospital
As families across Northern Ireland prepare to gather for Christmas and New Year, a frontline nurse at Antrim Area Hospital has appealed to the public to take simple but meaningful steps to protect loved ones, vulnerable patients and overstretched health services.
Cahal Bradley, a charge nurse based at Antrim Area Hospital, said small acts of consideration — such as staying at home when unwell and planning ahead — could make a significant difference during one of the busiest times of the year for hospitals and community services.
“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,” Mr Bradley said.
The reminder comes as health and social care staff across the Northern Health and Social Care Trust prepare for increased demand over the festive period, when winter illnesses such as colds, flu, COVID-19 and norovirus spread more easily due to indoor gatherings and close contact.
Mr Bradley encouraged people to think carefully before attending social events if they feel unwell and to prioritise health planning in advance of GP practice closures.
“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,” he said.
He also stressed the importance of protecting hospital patients, many of whom are particularly vulnerable at this time of year.
“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,” Mr Bradley added.
“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.”
Simple Steps to Stay Well Over the Festive Period
The Northern Trust is reminding the public that a few sensible precautions can reduce the spread of winter viruses and help ease pressure on frontline services:
Order prescriptions early — ensure repeat prescriptions are requested before GP practices close for the holidays.
Stay at home if unwell — avoid gatherings if experiencing symptoms such as fever, cough, sore throat, vomiting or diarrhoea.
Wash hands regularly — especially before eating or preparing food and after using the bathroom.
Cover coughs and sneezes — use a tissue or your elbow and wash hands afterwards.
Get vaccinated — flu and COVID-19 vaccines remain an effective way to reduce serious illness.
Check in on others — ask friends, relatives or neighbours how they are feeling and if they need support.
The Trust is also asking hospital visitors to consider wearing a face mask to help limit the spread of winter viruses and, where possible, to bring only one accompanying person to Emergency Departments to reduce overcrowding.
GP and Pharmacy Arrangements Over Christmas
GP practices will be closed on Thursday 25 December 2025, Friday 26 December 2025, and Thursday 1 January 2026.
The GP Out of Hours Service remains available for urgent medical care when surgeries are closed. Details of local services can be found on NI Direct.
Pharmacies will operate on a rota basis throughout the Christmas and New Year period. The full rota is available online below.
As Mr Bradley and colleagues continue working through the festive season, the message from the frontline is clear: a little thought for others can help ensure Christmas remains a time of care, kindness and community.