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Know what to do if you need medical help this bank holiday weekend

The local NHS is sharing some health and wellbeing tips to help everyone stay healthy and know where to turn for medical support over the Easter weekend.

With the long Easter weekend fast approaching, we’re all hoping to feel our best as we look forward to relaxing or spending time with loved ones. The last thing we want is hay fever, a cold or unexpected illnesses getting in the way. To help you enjoy a happy and healthy holiday, the local NHS has put together some helpful advice on managing any medical needs that might arise.

Your community pharmacist will be happy to offer advice on essential medicines you should keep at home. Keeping your medicine cabinet stocked will mean you are best prepared to deal with minor illnesses and injuries over the long weekend. Some essentials include:

  • Painkillers like paracetamol and ibuprofen
  • Anti-diarrhoea medicines
  • Oral rehydration salts
  • Indigestion treatments
  • Antihistamines
  • Plasters and bandages
  • Thermometer

In addition, local pharmacies are now able to provide consultations and medicines for some conditions, if appropriate, without the need for a GP appointment or prescription. These include:

  • earache (for those aged between 1 and 17)
  • impetigo (aged 1 year and over)
  • infected insect bites (aged 1 year and over)
  • shingles (age 18+)
  • sinusitis (aged 12+)
  • sore throat (aged 5+)
  • urinary tract infections (UTIs) for women aged 16-64 years

Remember to order prescription medications as early as possible before the long weekend as many GP practices will be closed and pharmacies will have limited opening hours over the bank holidays. You should order your repeat prescription at least seven days before you run out. 

Find out which pharmacies are open near you

If you are planning a trip or visiting relatives, make sure to take your medication with you. Bring extra just in case there are any delays getting home.

If you or a family member feels unwell you can use the 111 online symptom checker as a first port of call for health advice, or you can also telephone 111 for more urgent health concerns. Both are available 24 hours a day.

Emergency lines are always open 24 hours a day for serious and life-threatening emergencies. In case of a mental health crisis, adults can call NHS 111 and select the option for mental health at any time. Young people under 18 can call 0800 995 1000.