BASINGSTOKE GPs are encouraging residents to fill up their medicine cabinets as well as their stockings before the festive season gets into full swing.

North Hampshire Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) is advising that people prepare themselves for times when they may not be able to visit a pharmacist or GP.

Repeat prescriptions should be reordered as soon as possible to ensure that you have enough medication for the whole festive season, as out-of-hours services should not be used to obtain repeat prescriptions.

Dr Sam Hullah, chief clinical officer at North Hampshire CCG, said: “We all know that the lead-up to Christmas is busy but we are encouraging people to take some time now to enable them to stay well this festive season.

“Now is the time to add a festive self-care kit to your shopping list, order your repeat medication and be aware of the options available if you do need any health advice over the holidays.”

The CCG is advising that a self-care kit should include medicines to deal with hangovers, minor coughs, colds and stomach upsets.

For more advice about what to include in the kits visit www.nhs.uk/livewell/pharmacy/pages/yourmedicinecabinet.aspx.

If you do become unwell or need medical advice over Christmas and New Year there are various options available to choose well over the holidays.

Dr Hullah said: “Remember that the emergency department is for serious accidents and illnesses only, such as severe bleeding, chest pain or loss of consciousness.

“During the colder months especially, we all have a responsibility to choose well and reduce pressure at our busy emergency department.”

Along with self-care, where appropriate, patients can seek advice from their local pharmacist or GP or they can call NHS 111 for guidance.