Residents in Kent are being advised to consider their local pharmacy as the first port of call for common illnesses such as coughs and colds.

That's the message from the NHS West Kent Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) which is urging people across Maidstone, Sevenoaks, Tonbridge and Tunbridge Wells to think of their pharmacy first for these common ailments.

They can offer a range of health support for anyone seeking medical advice.

Dr Bob Bowes, chair of NHS West Kent CCG, said: “Pharmacies can provide much more than just a prescription. They can advise on minor ailments and how to use medications effectively and safely.

“At this time of year, many people get colds and flu and visit their GP when in reality a quick trip to the pharmacy is what they need.”

Ask Your Pharmacist Week runs from November 10-16.

Dr Bowes said: “Many pharmacies are open for longer hours than GP surgeries, and you don’t need an appointment. Pharmacists are highly trained health professionals who are qualified to offer health advice and guidance, particularly on common problems such as headache, coughs and colds, tummy bugs, verrucas and worms.

"They will advise you on buying over-the-counter medicine and give advice on prescribed medication. If they can’t help you, they will be able to direct you to the right place, whether that is your GP, practice nurse, or a minor injuries unit.

“A pharmacy should be your first port of call for common minor ailments" - Chris Nicholls, Hadlow Pharmacy...

"As many pharmacies now have consulting rooms people can discuss their problems with the pharmacist in private.”

Pharmacies also offer health improvement services such as stop smoking and weight management.

Chris Nicholls, from Hadlow Pharmacy, Hadlow, said: “A pharmacy should be your first port of call for common minor ailments.

“In Hadlow we are the first place many patients turn to for advice. We can support patients with advice and treatment and direct them to the right place if we can’t help.

“We’d like patients to think of their pharmacist first when they are unwell and seek our advice.”

The push to use pharmacists comes as the winter season of coughs and colds begins. The best treatment for a cold is to drink fluids, take paracetamol and to stay in bed. Antibiotics don’t work against viral infections such as colds and will not be prescribed by your doctor.

To find your nearest pharmacist, and check opening hours, see www.healthhelpnow-nhs.net

For more info visit: www.treatyourselfbetter.co.uk