Dr Owl is taking to the skies once again to remind people to make the most of the Easter holiday weekend by taking a few simple steps to look after their health.
The advice comes as part of the annual Be Health-Wise This Easter campaign, run by NHS 24 on behalf of NHSScotland.
Easter is one of the busiest times of the year for the NHS in Scotland and the campaign aims to reduce pressure on vital services.
Depending on local health boards, GP surgeries are set to be closed for either three or four days from Good Friday on 14 April to Easter Monday on 17 April, before reopening again on Tuesday 18 April.
People are reminded to check their local GP surgery and community pharmacy opening hours and to make sure they have a supply of over the counter medicines and repeat prescriptions.
NHS 24’s Medical Director, Professor George Crooks said: “We’ve had quite a mild winter but seasonal colds and illnesses can still be around alongside spring conditions such as hay fever. We want everyone to enjoy a lovely break, and are offering advice so people are as prepared as possible.
“Simple steps such as having enough over the counter medication in the medicine cupboard and planning ahead for any required repeat prescriptions over Easter can help.
“With children off school and with improving weather, there can be an increased risk of minor injuries like bumps, bruises and cuts. It’s an idea to have some antiseptic cream, wipes and plasters available in case little accidents happen.
“Don’t forget, your local pharmacy can also be a great source of advice on treating minor illnesses or injuries and the NHS inform website is packed with advice for common ailments.”
Although many GP surgeries will be closed at Easter, hundreds of GPs will be working throughout this period supporting out of hours services across Scotland.
The four key steps that Be Health-Wise This Easter recommends are:
Restock your medicine cabinet if needed
Common ailments such as colds can often be effectively treated at home with readily available medicine such as pain relief, cough mixture and cold remedies. Parents are reminded to restock their medicine cabinet with child-friendly remedies. Also stock plasters, iodine, antiseptic cream and wipes, gauze and tape for treating minor injuries such as small-scale burns, scratches, knocks and cuts.
Use your local pharmacy
Your pharmacist can offer advice or help if you need over-the-counter remedies or have run out of any prescribed medication. You can also pick up plasters and antiseptic creams to prepare for any minor accidents.
Make sure you have enough repeat prescription.
If you or someone you care for requires medicines regularly, make sure you order and collect repeat prescriptions in good time to ensure you have enough medicine to last over the holiday period. Only order what you need.
Know when your GP surgery will be open
Your local GP surgery may be closed for four days during the Easter weekend from Good Friday to Easter Monday (Good Friday on 14 April to Easter Monday on 17 April).
General advice and information on how to stay healthy this Easter can be found at www.nhsinform.scot
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