The NHS is urging people to “stockpile” some vital medicines until the end of August.
This comes as the bank holiday comes at the end of this month, meaning it may be more difficult to get essential prescriptions and medicines refilled on the day.
The NHS said it was “reminding people to plan their medicine needs” ahead of Monday, August 26.
The company said people should act now to ensure prescriptions are refilled and arrive on time to avoid supply shortages of life-saving medicines.
Dr Hamish McClure, NHS medical director for the North East and Yorkshire, said: “All regular prescriptions should be ordered in advance to ensure we have enough supplies to get through the bank holiday on 26 August. You can order regular prescriptions and change your preferred pharmacy using the NHS app.”
“The app also allows patients to see when their prescription was issued and what medications they were prescribed.”
The NHS added that people should “consider” keeping small stockpiles of essential medicines at home.
It says: “People may also consider keeping small stocks of basic medicines at home for minor illnesses and injuries. This may include paracetamol, bandages, indigestion medicine and anti-diarrhoea medicine. Ask your local pharmacist for advice on what medicines you should stock at home.”
Dr McClure stressed that NHS 111 Online is a great option for people who need medical support for a wide range of health issues.
He added: “The app will tell you where to get help for your symptoms and the most appropriate local treatment option, whether that be your GP, a pharmacy consultation, a nurse call back or an urgent walk-in treatment centre.”
“In an emergency where someone is seriously ill or injured and their life is at risk, you should call 999 and go to an emergency department.”
