I'm going to be attending a lot of parties this year - how can I avoid having my drink spiked?

Drink spiking is when a mind-altering substance such as drugs or alcohol has been added to your drink without you knowing.

To lower your risk of getting your drink spiked, keep your drink in your hand and don't leave it unattended. Never accept a drink from a stranger and always avoid situations you don't feel comfortable in. Always tell people where you'll be and when you'll be back and try not to give away too much personal information to someone you've just met - such as your address. Drink from a bottle rather than a glass when you can, as it's more difficult to spike bottled drinks. If you think your drink has been touched, don't be tempted to try it - tell the management of the place you are in immediately.

Remember that if you have already been drinking, you will be more vulnerable because alcohol dulls your awareness of danger so don't become complacent - it could happen to you.

How can I look after my family over Christmas and New Year when GP surgeries can sometimes be closed over the holidays?

Make sure you are prepared by knowing the opening times of your GP surgery and local pharmacies.

If you are unlucky enough to get a cough, cold or flu, buying over the counter medicine, staying at home and keeping warm will make you feel much better.

Your local pharmacy is a good source of safe, reliable advice.

Make sure you have a well stocked medicine cabinet with over the counter medicines such as paracetamol and ibuprofen for pain relief, anti-histamines for allergies and runny noses, anti-diarrhoeals and oral rehydration sachets for diarrhoea indigestion remedies such as an antacid and a first aid kit.

If your symptoms worsen, you should make a routine doctor's appointment.

If you feel your condition cannot wait until your GP surgery re-opens, contact NHS 24 on 0845 4 242424.

WHAT IS... WINTER VOMITING DISEASE?

Norovirus, sometimes known as the winter vomiting bug, is the most common stomach bug in the UK, affecting people of all ages. The virus, which is highly contagious, has no specific cure so you have to let it run its course, usually a couple of days.

The first sign is usually a sudden sick feeling followed by forceful vomiting and watery diarrhoea. You may also have a raised temperature, headaches, stomach cramps and aching limbs.

It is important to have plenty to drink and, if you feel the need, paracetamol for any fever or aches and pains. Try to eat foods that are easy to digest. Apart from the risk of dehydration, the illness is not generally dangerous. However, it is pretty unpleasant while you have it.