Publish date: 8 January 2026
People living with sickle cell are at increased risk of complications during winter, with local NHS teams and clinicians playing a vital role in helping them stay well.
Proactive care includes ensuring patients have up-to-date personalised care plans, rapid access to pain relief, and clear advice on avoiding cold exposure and infection.
Encourage flu and COVID-19 vaccinations where appropriate, regular medication reviews and early contact with services if symptoms worsen.
Clinicians interested in learning more about sickle cell, how to spot the signs of a complication early and appropriate treatment can take the free e-learning module on the NHS Learning Hub.
