People in Hampshire urged to use pharmacies
We are being told to avoid A&E's in Hampshire this weekend if we are suffering with minor illnesses.
Last updated 7th May 2024
Many pharmacies will be open across the Bank Holiday weekend, including on Monday 6th May.
People often think twice about using them for advice and treatment for minor illnesses and instead head to urgent treatment centres and even A&E.
The aim is to help reduce demand on busy emergency departments - freeing staff up for life-threatening issues.
Chief Medical Officer Dr Laura Alloway says pharmacies are fully qualified to help.
"They are now able to treat a number of conditions including, shingles, sore throats, insect bites, ear-aches for children and uncomplicated urine infections.
"We want to build trust and understanding of what our community pharmacies can do for people.
"While people don't understand the array of different things they can do, we are not utilising them as much as we can and they are invaluable."