HEALTH chiefs anticipating heavy demand on their services over the Easter break are urging people with minor problems to think of using their pharmacy first.

‘They are the places to go for people with minor elements,’ a Devon NHS spokesman suggested.

GP practices and casualty departments usually take the brunt of the holiday rush from those under the weather.

But the professionals are reminding people that pharmacies are better placed to deal with aches and pains, a sore throat, coughs, colds, flu, earache and skin rashes.

Most outlets are open till late and at weekends with no appointments needed. The majority feature confidential consulting areas.

Mark Stone, a pharmacist at the Devon Local Pharmaceutical Committee, said that pharmacies should be the first port of call for anyone with concerns about their health but are not sure if a GP is needed.

‘Pharmacists are medicines experts who can provide people with knowledge to help them get the best out of their medicines, as well as advice on common health conditions, like coughs, colds, flu, indigestion, headaches or high temperature.’ he said.

He added: ‘Pharmacies are very local and accessible, and are usually open late at night. Most have a private consultation room, so people can have a private conversation about the condition they’re suffering with.

‘Some pharmacies offer services for conditions that people would usually see their doctor for and require prescription to have treated. These include urinary tract infections, bacterial eye infections, mild skin infections and for babies with nappy rash.

‘Many pharmacies in Devon are also able to speak to people about how to stay healthy - for example, giving up smoking, eating a good diet and exercising.’

Local pharmacy opening hours during the bank holiday weekend can be checked by visiting https://bit.ly/2ufki0U.