Advice from local health chiefs for a happy, healthy Easter

Ahead of the Easter bank holiday weekend (Friday 2 - Monday 5 April), NHS Heywood, Middleton and Rochdale Clinical Commissioning Group (HMR CCG) is reminding borough residents to plan and order repeat prescriptions in good time, check local pharmacy opening hours and stock up on vital over-the-counter remedies.

Patients are reminded to contact 111.nhs.uk if they are showing symptoms of Covid-19 (a high temperature or a new, continuous cough, loss/change in your normal sense of smell or taste). You should self-isolate with your household and get tested immediately.

Further information about testing for patients displaying symptoms of Covid-19 can be found on the Rochdale Council website here.

Pharmacies: offer clinical advice and over-the-counter medicines for a range of minor illnesses. The full list of pharmacies in Heywood, Middleton and Rochdale that will be open over the Easter bank holiday weekend is available online. Patients are advised to telephone their usual pharmacy before travelling as opening hours may vary during the holiday period.

NHS 111: visit 111.nhs.uk or call 111 if you have an urgent medical problem. It is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

NHS.uk: is your complete guide to conditions, symptoms and treatments, including what to do and when to get help.

GP Practices: Evening and weekend appointments are available via the seven-day access service by calling the central booking line on 0161 763 8292.

In advance of the long bank holiday weekend, check your medication supplies and order and collect any repeat prescriptions from your GP practice as soon as possible.

Dr Chris Duffy, local GP and Chair of NHS HMR CCG, said: “As Easter approaches and we see some of the restrictions in England start to lift, it’s important that everyone continues to follow government guidelines to help reduce the spread of coronavirus and keep everyone safe so that we can get back to a more normal life.

“With some simple preparation, many minor conditions can be easily treated with a well-stocked medicine cabinet at home. If you do become unwell, it’s important to know where to go for medical help.

“By choosing the right service, patients will get the best treatment in the shortest possible time – whilst keeping emergency health services available for emergencies and life threatening conditions.”

As part of the government’s four-step roadmap, from 29 March, outdoor gatherings of either six people or two households will be allowed. Outdoor sports facilities can open and people can take part in formally organised outdoor sports.

During this time coming out of the restrictions we want people to continue to be Covid safe. People should continue to work from home where they can, stay local and minimise the number of journeys they make where possible, avoiding travel at the busiest times.

People should continue to wear a mask, maintain social distancing, wash hands regularly and get vaccinated when it is your turn.