As February half term approaches, NHS Hampshire and Isle of Wight is encouraging parents and carers to make use of their local pharmacies for minor illnesses such as coughs, colds and sore throats.
With many children off school, and winter illnesses still circulating, pharmacies offer a fast and convenient way to get expert health advice and both over-the-counter and prescription medication without the need for an appointment.
Dr Tom Bertram, Local GP and Clinical Director for Primary and Local Care at NHS Hampshire and Isle of Wight, said:
“We know that children often pick up colds and minor illnesses, especially in winter. It can be worrying for parents when their child is unwell, but in many cases, these common conditions can be safely managed at home.
“Your local pharmacy is a great first port of call for advice and treatment for common conditions like coughs, colds, and other childhood illnesses. Pharmacists are highly trained professionals who can recommend the right treatment and advise when further medical help may be needed.
“If you’re ever unsure about where to go, the Healthier Together app is a great source of advice for parents and 111.nhs.uk is available to help direct you to the most appropriate service. We want to make sure every child gets the right care in the right place, so please make use of the resources available in your community.”
The Pharmacy First scheme, which launched last year, means that patients can be offered treatment for seven common conditions directly from their local pharmacy, without the need for a GP appointment or prescription. The seven conditions are:
- Sinusitis
- Sore throat
- Earache
- Infected insect bites
- Impetigo
- Shingles
- Uncomplicated urinary tract infections in women aged 16-64.
Pharmacy First enables community pharmacists to advise on how to manage a condition and supply prescription-only medicines (without a prescription), including antibiotics and antivirals where clinically appropriate.
Other services across Hampshire and Isle of Wight open to provide care over half term are:
- Healthier Together – download the app to find a wealth of winter health advice on many common conditions.
- Urgent Treatment Centre - can help with injuries and illnesses that need urgent medical attention but aren’t life threatening. Waiting times can also be shorter than at Emergency Departments.
- Shout text service (Mental health support service) – text SHOUT to 85258 or visit the Shout website for more information.
- Emergency department - If you or someone you know is experience a medical emergency you should call 999 or visit St Mary's Emergency Department.
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