While December is a time filled with joy and celebration, it's no secret the winter months can bring all sorts of illnesses with them, with colds, coughs and flu doing the rounds. However, if you're worried about heading into January a little under the weather, there are simple things you can do to prepare.

A pharmacist has urged people to stock up on basic aids early to get ahead of the game, and he encouraged everyone to get a few winter must-haves. He says being prepared means you can treat symptoms early and avoid unnecessary GP visits, so it's health information well worth noting.

Pharmacists say the best way to get through winter is to prepare before the cold and flu season really bites. Having a stocked medicine cabinet means you can tackle symptoms quickly, without scrambling for supplies once you’re already feeling unwell.

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"Preparation really is half the battle," said Pharmacist Frederick Apenteng from Roseway Labs. "Once you’re unwell, you don’t want to be searching for paracetamol or trying to find a thermometer. That’s when people end up feeling worse."

According to Frederick, you need to start with the essentials. Paracetamol or ibuprofen for pain, fever and muscle aches.

Add throat lozenges or sprays for sore throats and keep two cough syrups. One expectorant for chesty coughs and one suppressant for dry, tickly ones.

A decongestant is handy for blocked noses, but don’t use it for more than five days, and a saline nasal spray can safely soothe congestion long term. Other must-haves include rehydration sachets, tissues, hand sanitiser and honey and lemon for comfort.

A digital thermometer helps track fever, and vapour rub or a humidifier can make breathing easier when you’re stuffed up. He also points out that a balanced diet is the foundation of good immunity.

"People often get run down because of nutrient gaps," he said. "Iron, B vitamins and vitamin C all play vital roles in keeping your immune defences strong." Foods rich in these nutrients, like leafy greens, citrus and whole grains can make a real difference.

"The real immunity boosters are sleep, good nutrition and hydration," added Frederick.

A little prep now saves stress later. "Having your winter kit ready means you can act fast at the first sneeze," added Frederick. "This helps prevent symptoms from worsening, and keeps you away from the GP waiting room."

In a nutshell, if people feel unwell it's best they stock up and rest early to get through the season like a pro.

If you're suffering with a cold or the flu, you just need to know it's essential never to overuse certain products. In some cases, using cold and flu remedies too often can lead to serious health complications, including accidental overdose, liver or kidney damage and rebound congestion.

It's vital you always follow the dosage and duration instructions on the label and consult a healthcare professional if you have any questions. For those who suffer with colds, it's worth noting that using decongestant nasal sprays for more than a few days can lead to a "rebound effect".

This can actually lead to your nasal passages becoming more swollen and congested than they were initially. This is also known as a condition called rhinitis medicamentosa.