Health advice for public holidays

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Some NHS services may be closed or have different opening times on public holidays. There are things you can do to prepare.

GP practice and pharmacy opening times

On public holidays, your GP practice and pharmacy may have different opening times.

It’s important to know their opening times during public holidays. This means you can order and collect any repeat prescriptions in plenty of time.

How to access medicines

If you run out of your regular medicine and your GP practice is closed, there are ways to get an emergency supply.

More about prescriptions

Over-the-counter medicines

You should keep over-the-counter medicines at home for seasonal illnesses. This includes:

  • paracetamol and ibuprofen for pain relief (check the label or speak to your pharmacist to check it’s suitable for you)
  • anti-histamines to help allergies
  • anti-diarrhoeals and oral rehydration sachets for diarrhoea
  • indigestion remedies such as an antacid
  • mild laxative for constipation
  • a first aid kit
  • medicines for children (your pharmacist can tell you which ones to keep in the house)

Taking over-the-counter medicines

Do

  • get further advice if your symptoms continue or are severe
  • follow the advice on the pack
  • remember that medicines go out of date, so don’t overstock your medicine cabinet

Pharmacy First

If you have a minor illness, a pharmacist can provide non-prescription medicines free of charge. This is known as the Pharmacy First Service.

Managing common seasonal illnesses

Complete these self-help guides to check your symptoms and find out what to do next:

More self-help guides

More health information

You can read more general health information on:

Last updated:
18 January 2024

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