People across the North East and Yorkshire are being urged to use their health expert on the high street this festive period for advice and help on minor illnesses.

Visiting the pharmacist for advice on minor illnesses, and the best medicines to treat them, can save you time in the waiting room and help you feel better fast.

Pharmacists are highly qualified health care professionals, who can offer quick, confidential advice on a range of illnesses. Most have a private consultation room, so health concerns don’t need to be discussed at the counter.

Many pharmacies will remain open over the Christmas and New Year, when other services may not be available.

For local pharmacy opening hours, over the festive season click here. 

People are also being asked to make sure that their medicine cabinet and first aid kits are well stocked and that any repeat prescriptions are collected well before Christmas day.

Professor Chris Gray, Medical Director for the NHS in North East and Yorkshire, said: “Many people still visit the GP or A&E for conditions that can be treated at home or with a pharmacist’s advice.

“Pharmacists offer expert, confidential advice and treatment for minor health problems and many of our region’s pharmacies have a confidential room where you can discuss your medical needs in private.

“Antibiotics don’t work on common coughs and colds but remedies to help ease the symptoms are available at all pharmacies. Taking care of ourselves is very important and if you’re not sure what to take, pharmacists can help you, particularly if you’re already on medication.”