Sponsored Editorial

Make sure you’re ready for winter by stocking up medicine cabinets, having your vaccines and visiting a local pharmacist at the first sign of illness.

Pharmacists can give free help and advice on many minor illnesses, such as colds or fever, which can be safely treated at home without the need to see a doctor.

Dr Navin Kumta, Chair of NHS Kent and Medway Clinical Commissioning Group, said: “Now is the time to take action and get you and your family through the winter season. Book your Covid-19 booster and flu vaccine, if eligible, and check you have basic essentials in the medicine cabinet. This should include paracetamol, cold remedies, plasters, tweezers and a thermometer.

“Ask for advice from your pharmacist at the first sign of feeling ill – don’t wait for it to become more serious. They will be happy to talk to you about a cough or a cold and can sell a range of medication without the need for a prescription.

“If you urgently need medical care when your GP practice is closed and the pharmacy can’t help, please ring NHS 111 for advice or go online. It can help you find the right service, whether that’s advice over the phone or to book you an appointment at an urgent treatment centre.”

Find out more about the services on offer and details on booking vaccines at www.stopthinkchoose.co.uk.