Call for patients to stock up over bank holiday

There is also a reminder for patients to have a stock of over-the-counter medicines for common minor illnesses and to ‘choose well’ if it’s more serious but not life threatening, by calling NHS 111 for help or advice.

Dr David Kelly, GP and Chair of NHS North Kirklees Clinical Commissioning Group, said: “Pharmacists are experts in the use of medicines and can give advice and help with common illnesses like insect bites and stings, rashes, headaches, coughs and colds and upset tummies. Several pharmacies will be open in our area on Bank Holiday Monday.

“NHS 111 is there to take pressure off hospital Accident and Emergency Units but will still get a GP or ambulance to patients who need help urgently, so it makes sense for patients to call the service first if they need urgent help for something that isn’t life threatening.

Branches of pharmacy Boots will be open at Birstall Retail Park and on The Prince of Wales Precinct over the Bank Holiday. Other pharmacies open include Oakwood Pharmacy on Blackburn Road in Birstall, Davison Chemists on Wellington Road in Dewsbury, as well as branches of ASDA and Sainsbury’s in the town.