Get stocked up before the bank holiday weekend
The NHS in Norfolk and Waveney is reminding people to be prepared with their medication over the Easter bank holiday this year.
Anyone who requires regular medication is asked to plan ahead and ensure they have everything they need before the festive season begins.
Many pharmacies are open over bank holidays and weekends and can offer expert advice on common conditions such as, colds, cuts and bruises and insect bites and many other minor ailments.
Remember to order your repeat prescription in good time, allowing time for these to be processed and dispensed safely. This will help everyone get the medicines they need so they can to enjoy the long weekend.
People should also check their medicine cabinet is stocked with basics, such as indigestion remedies, plasters and painkillers, so that they can self-care for minor problems at home.
If you are experiencing symptoms such as diarrhoea and vomiting, which are common in adults, children and babies, you can usually treat yourself or your child at home. The most important thing is to have lots of fluids to avoid dehydration. These symptoms are often caused by a stomach bug and should stop in a few days.
COVID-19 hasn’t gone away, and the risk of future variants that aren’t as mild as Omicron remains. That’s why it’s important we continue to follow best-practice infection prevention behaviours. It is not too late to get your vaccination, for more information visit COVID-19 vaccinations - Norfolk and Waveney CCG
Michael Dennis, Head of Medicines Optimisation NHS Norfolk & Waveney CCG said:
“We are urging you to be prepared this Easter bank holiday and make sure you have your medication. Our pharmacies and GPs are working really hard to make sure you have what you need. Certain pharmacies are available over the bank holiday for medication as well as for things like minor aliments including cold and coughs.”
Lauren Seamons Deputy Chief Officer Norfolk Local Pharmaceutical Committee said:
“Your local community pharmacy teams are working incredibly hard to ensure your medicines are ready when you need them. Please allow plenty of time for your prescription to be made up and try to come and collect a day or two before you run out to reduce the chance of a small issue becoming a big problem.
Our teams are doing their very best to help patients in this extremely busy time, so please also be kind to them.”
To find your nearest pharmacy visit https://www.nhs.uk/service-search/pharmacy/find-a-pharmacy and for information about the pharmacies which will be open on the bank holidays is available here https://www.england.nhs.uk/east-of-england/nhs-england-and-nhs-improvement-east-of-englands-work/pharmacy-information/
For anything that feels urgent, or if you are unsure what to do, phone NHS 111 or visit 111.nhs.uk. They can direct you to the most appropriate place and even book you a time slot for a GP consultation or A&E if necessary. In life-threatening emergencies dial 999. Please remember that A&E is there to deal with genuine life-threatening emergencies and treat those who are seriously unwell.
If you do get ill and you’re worried about your health, please don’t put off getting help. Your NHS wants to see you before any health concerns worsen. For more information about where to go and helpful advice visit www.springintohealth.co.uk