NHS 24 is reminding anyone taking long-term medication to plan for the festive holidays as part of this year’s ‘Be Health-Wise This Winter’ campaign.
The Be Health-Wise campaign features Dr Owl who has been busy twit-twooing reminders about how we can look after ourselves during the busy winter period.
Having the right medicines is part of this, as NHS 24’s Head of Pharmacy, John McAnaw explains: “Winter can be a time for lots of minor ailments so we should all have things like paracetamol, ibuprofen and rehydration salts to hand. However, it is really important that people who rely on repeat medicines check what they have, and make sure they have enough to cover the festive holidays. Winter can always throw up a surprise, especially in terms of weather so don’t leave it to the last minute to order and pick up your repeat prescription.
“Order only what you need and collect it in plenty of time – the last date for ordering this year is Friday 18th December to be sure of having your medicines before Christmas.”
The Be Health-Wise This Winter campaign is supported by Community Pharmacy Scotland. Harry McQuillan, Chief Executive Officer says: “Our community pharmacists are there to support people with advice about their health and wellbeing and they can also give ideas about what to keep in the house at this time of year to help with seasonal illnesses. They can also help with emergency supplies of medicines or dressings so it’s worth knowing where your local pharmacist is and what their opening hours are over the holidays.”
The three things that Dr Owl is recommending everyone do in preparation for their health this winter are:
- Make sure you have over the counter remedies in the house
- Check you have enough repeat prescription medicines – order only what you need and pick up in plenty of time
- Know when your GP surgery and local pharmacy will be open
Advice and information on how to stay healthy this winter can be found at www.nhsinform.co.uk
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