Sneezes, sniffles and sore throats this Christmas? Think pharmacy first!

Got a cough, cold or Christmas bug? Health teams across the region are reminding everyone to make the smart choice when it comes to their health this winter by thinking 'pharmacy first'.

The festive season is here and so are the sneezes, sniffles and sore throats. Instead of waiting for a doctor’s appointment, health experts are advising people to visit their local pharmacy for quick and easy advice and treatment.

Many other common problems like headaches, coughs, colds, sprains, strains and small cuts can also be treated with advice and medicines straight from a pharmacy, meaning you can start to feel better faster and get back to enjoying Christmas and New Year.

Pharmacists are highly trained healthcare professionals, who can provide expert advice without the need for an appointment. Many pharmacies stay open late and on weekends and have private consultation rooms where people can speak in confidence about any health concerns.

Dr Neil O’Brien, chief medical officer, NHS North East and North Cumbria Integrated Care Board (ICB) said: “People often think they must see a doctor but for many minor illnesses a pharmacy can often help much quicker than waiting for a GP appointment.

“You can just walk in or your GP practice, or NHS 111, may even send you to a pharmacy for a minor condition and we would strongly encourage you to take up this option if it is offered."

Under the national 'Pharmacy First' scheme, pharmacists can now also prescribe antibiotics for certain minor conditions. These treatments are available at no cost, to patients who qualify for free prescriptions, and include.

Sore throats (age 5+)

Sinusitis (age 12+)

Earache in kids (age 1–17)

Infected insect bites (age 1+)

Impetigo (age 1+)

Shingles (age 18+)

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) in women (not including pregnant women) (age 16–64)

They can also provide expert advice on using medication to ensure people are taking it safely and correctly.

Professor Ewan Maule, ICB director of medicines, added: “Over the festive period, pharmacies play a vital role in keeping people well.

"Pharmacy teams are highly skilled and work closely with GPs and other health services to give patients the best care possible and they don’t just offer advice and medicines, they can also provide services like emergency contraception, flu and COVID-19 vaccinations, blood pressure checks and medication reviews.

“So, this winter, for minor illnesses or general health advice, think pharmacy first and help keep yourself and your family well.”

For more information on Pharmacy First, visit the NHS website.

To ensure you’re prepared over the holidays, check your local pharmacy’s opening times for Christmas, Boxing Day, and New Year’s Day at NHS find a pharmacy.

For non-urgent medical advice, NHS 111 online or by phone is available 24/7 and can guide you to the most appropriate service if your pharmacy is closed.