Easter Health Alert: Pharmacies to remain open across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight

NHS encourages proactive health measures for the upcoming long bank holiday starting 29 March to April 1

As the Easter holiday draws near, pharmacies across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight are readying themselves to provide essential healthcare services to residents.

Operational throughout Good Friday (March 29), Easter Sunday (March 31), and Easter Monday (April 1), these pharmacies stand poised to offer vital support to those in need.

NHS England has raised awareness by releasing a comprehensive list of pharmacies scheduled to operate during the holiday period. Hampshire residents, including those in Southampton and Portsmouth, can access detailed information about open pharmacies on the NHS England website, along with separate listings for the Isle of Wight.

However, it's important to note that opening times may vary, prompting individuals to confirm details before visiting, as schedules are subject to change.

Beyond merely dispensing prescriptions, pharmacies are equipped to provide expert advice on minor illnesses and administer treatments for common conditions. This includes addressing issues such as shingles, sore throats, infected insect bites, earaches, sinusitis, impetigo, and uncomplicated urinary tract infections (UTI) under the Pharmacy First scheme.

Dr. Lara Alloway, chief medical officer for NHS Hampshire and Isle of Wight, underscored the critical role pharmacies play in delivering healthcare support.

Pharmacists, she highlighted, "are not only experts in medication but also offer guidance on managing health conditions and wellbeing. They can assist individuals in determining whether further medical attention from a GP or nurse is necessary."

Dr. Alloway also emphasised the importance for individuals reliant on repeat medication to ensure they have adequate supplies for the holiday period. Despite Easter cover, several pharmacies will be closed, necessitating careful planning by residents.

As the Easter Bank Holiday nears, the NHS urges everyone to order their repeat prescriptions early to avoid disruptions in medication supply.

Stressing the importance of advanced orders to mitigate potential delays, the NHS warns of altered opening hours or closures for some NHS services during the public holiday.

A statement from the NHS, shared on Twitter, advises patients to order their prescriptions promptly using various channels, including the NHS app or local general practices.

With the holiday approaching, the NHS's advice is a timely reminder to ensure an uninterrupted medication supply throughout the Easter period.