Julian visits Copmanthorpe Pharmacy to encourage residents to ‘Stay Well this Winter’ and ‘Think Pharmacy First’
December 7, 2017
Julian recently visited Copmanthorpe Pharmacy to learn about how North Yorkshire Community Pharmacies are supporting the “Stay Well this Winter” campaign promoted by the NHS and Public Health England. This encourages people most at risk from colder weather, including people with long-term health conditions and the over 65s, to prepare for the lower temperatures, along with their family, friends and carers.
Advice includes:
If you have a long-term health condition, are aged 65 or over; or are pregnant, get the free flu vaccine now
Seek immediate advice from a pharmacist at the first sign of winter illnesses, before it gets serious
If you are a parent of a child aged 2-3, or in school years reception to four, get the free flu vaccine for them
Keep an eye out for elderly relatives and neighbours
Try and keep your home heated to at least 18°C (65°F)
Julian also heard about “Think Pharmacy First”, a campaign which encourages people consult their local pharmacist when suffering with minor ailments like coughs or colds, rather than going straight to their GP or other NHS services like A and E.
Every pharmacist has trained for 5 years, and is therefore highly qualified to advise on minor ailments. Colds, coughs, minor ailments and injuries, and aches and pains, are all things a local pharmacist can assist with. Most North Yorkshire pharmacies have confidential consulting rooms, so can provide high quality, confidential advice and treatment.
Following the visit, Julian said: “I was glad to see how Copmanthorpe Pharmacy and others in our part of Yorkshire are engaging with these national campaigns to help safeguard the health of local residents.
I would encourage all constituents, especially those who are older, have young children, or suffer health problems, to think about what they can do to look after their health during the cold season. I would also suggest York residents consider the professional help available at their local pharmacy all year round to address minor health needs.”
For further information about how you and your family can stay well this winter, please visit www.nhs.uk/staywell#KMpfOZSjhtaUQfT1.97
For further information on how your pharmacist can help with your health needs, please visit http://www.thinkpharmacyfirst.org/
