Over Christmas, health advice on alcohol, burns, and bites saw a significant rise in interest, according to figures released by NHS England. The NHS website recorded substantial increases in visits to pages covering these topics on Christmas Day and Boxing Day last year.

Advice on alcohol and breastfeeding saw the biggest surge, with visits soaring by 146% compared to the week before. Information on alcohol poisoning also saw a sharp rise, with nearly 60% more views over the two festive days. Guidance on rabies showed the second largest increase, with visits up by 123%, while advice on animal and human bites also rose by almost a third. Meanwhile, information on treating burns and scalds saw a 50% rise as people gathered for celebratory meals.

Norovirus topped the most viewed health conditions over Christmas and Boxing Day 2023, with an estimated 19,170 visits, equating to one view every nine seconds. Chest infections and advice on diarrhoea and vomiting were also popular, with 17,398 and 11,786 visits respectively.

Professor Sir Stephen Powis, NHS England’s Medical Director, urged people to use the NHS website and app for reliable advice during the festive period. With over two million daily visits, the site provides guidance on hundreds of conditions, winter vaccinations, and healthcare services. He reminded the public to seek emergency help via 999 for critical issues or 111 for less urgent concerns.