How to Stay Healthy This Easter: Expert Guidance

To stay well and avoid any last-minute health worries over the Easter bank holiday weekend (3 – 6 April), NHS Greater Manchester (NHS GM) is sharing this egg-cellent advice.

Repeat prescriptions

Anyone who relies on regular medication should order repeat prescriptions at least one week before Easter to avoid running out over the long holiday weekend. The NHS App offers the quickest and easiest way to request prescriptions and choose a pharmacy for collection.

What to do if you feel unwell

Knowing where to go for medical help over Easter weekend can save you time and ensure you get the right care quickly.

• NHS 111: If you need medical advice, visit 111.nhs.uk or call 111, where trained professionals can guide you to the right service or book an urgent appointment if necessary. Always call 111 where a child is under 5 years of age. The call is free and the service is open 24 hours a day. If you need help in another language, call 111 and ask for an interpreter. If you have a hearing problem or need a BSL interpreter there are other ways to contact 111.

• Pharmacies: Opening hours may vary over Easter – Bank Holiday pharmacy opening hours | Greater Manchester Integrated Care Partnership
• Find your nearest pharmacy on the NHS website.
• Pharmacy First: Pharmacists can provide expert advice and treatment for common conditions such as urinary tract infections (UTIs), sore throats, and skin infections without the need for a GP appointment.

• Urgent dental care: If your practice is closed or you don’t have a dentist, call the Greater Manchester Dental Helpline on 0333 332 3800 (8am – 10pm daily, including bank holidays). Charges may apply unless you are exempt.
• Urgent eye care: Greater Manchester’s Urgent Eyecare Service (UES) provides free NHS treatment. Go to the website to find your nearest participating optician.

Visit Get to Know Where to Go for more helpful information.

Mental health support over Easter

Mental health services remain open throughout the bank holiday weekend. If you need urgent mental health help, call NHS 111 and select Option 2.

In a medical emergency

If someone is seriously ill, injured, or their life is at risk, always call 999 or go to your nearest A&E department.

Be prepared at home

Keeping a few basics at home can help you manage minor illnesses over Easter.

NHS GM recommends:

• Paracetamol and ibuprofen (and child-friendly versions such as Calpol or unbranded equivalents)
• Antihistamines for allergies
• A basic first-aid kit with plasters, antiseptic cream and eyewash
• Oral rehydration salts
• Indigestion remedies
• Cold and flu treatments

Allergy season is beginning

Spring brings an increase in hay fever and allergy symptoms such as sneezing, itchy eyes and runny noses. Make sure your antihistamines and regular allergy medicines are in date and use them as directed.

Dr Manisha Kumar, chief clinical officer at NHS Greater Manchester, said: “Our NHS services are always busier over bank holidays, so knowing where to go for the right help really does make a difference.

“By choosing the most appropriate service, you help keep urgent and emergency care available for those who need it the most. And if you’re ever unsure what to do, NHS 111 is there 24/7 to point you in the right direction.”