Sniffles, sneezes, bug bites and bee stings - your local pharmacy has spring health covered

From hay fever sniffles and sneezes to itchy bug bites and stings, people across the North East and North Cumbria are being urged to get faster 'walk-in' care at their local pharmacy.

As warmer weather arrives so do health issues like hay fever, insect bites and stings.

Health experts across the region are reminding people to think 'Pharmacy First' this spring for advice and treatment, for a whole host of conditions, rather than booking an appointment with their GP.

Pete Horrocks, community pharmacy lead, NHS North East and North Cumbria Integrated Care Board (ICB) said: "Spring is finally here and many people are getting outdoors and enjoying the warmer weather, but with sunshine and fresh air comes a few health issues.

“Local pharmacies are quick and easy places to get help with advice and treatment for hay fever, bites and stings.

"With many open evenings and weekends, they’re easy to get to and you don’t need an appointment. You can just walk in and it's often much quicker than waiting for a GP appointment, especially for busy parents and people who work who want help fast."

Pharmacists can treat a wide range of health problems, including:

  • Aches and pains
  • Allergies
  • Coughs and colds
  • Ear and eye conditions
  • Skin issues
  • Stomach complaints

And through the NHS Pharmacy First scheme, they can now supply prescription treatment, without needing to see a GP, for:

  • Sore throats
  • Earache
  • Sinusitis
  • Infected insect bites
  • Impetigo
  • Shingles
  • Uncomplicated UTIs in women

For many people, treatment is free or charged at the usual NHS prescription rate.

Pharmacies also offer free blood pressure checks for over-40s, oral contraception services and, from 13 April - 30 June, COVID-19 spring boosters will be available for over 75s and anyone aged 6 months and over with a weakened immune system.

Mr Horrocks added, "We want people to get the right care, quickly.

"If you have a serious health concern it’s still important to speak to your GP, but for minor or non-urgent health problems, quick blood pressure check-ups or contraception services, your local pharmacy can often help much more quickly and save you a trip to the doctor.”