With the Spring bank holiday approaching on Monday 25 May, the NHS in West Yorkshire is reminding people to plan ahead, as services are expected to be busy. 
Most GP practices and some pharmacies will be closed or have different opening hours over the bank holiday. Urgent GP appointments will still be available, but may not be at your usual practice. Appointments must be booked in advance by contacting your GP practice, using NHS 111 online or calling 111.
People are also being urged to check they have enough prescription medication to last the holiday period and order repeat prescriptions in good time using the NHS App or through their GP practice.
Anyone with a life or limb-threatening emergency should still call 999 or attend A&E immediately.
The bank holiday also falls during school half term for many children, so families are encouraged to be prepared for spending more time outdoors and the health risks that can come with warmer weather.
Make sure your medicine cabinet is stocked with essentials such as paracetamol, ibuprofen, antiseptic cream and antihistamines. Parents of young children may also want to keep children’s medicines, a thermometer and creams for bites or itching at home.
Insect bites and stings are usually mild and can often be treated at home or with advice and medicines from a pharmacy. Pharmacists can also provide treatment if a bite becomes infected. 
Hay fever symptoms can be worse at this time of year, especially during warm, humid or windy weather when pollen counts are high. There are simple ways to ease symptoms such as itchy eyes, sneezing and blocked noses.
People are also reminded to stay safe in the sun. Sunburn can happen in the UK even on cloudy days, so children should wear suitable clothing, use SPF30 sunscreen and spend time in the shade, particularly between 11am and 3pm.
For more information and advice on how to self-care at home visit: togetherwe-can.com/spring-summer-health
For most people, illnesses such as colds, flu, COVID-19 and norovirus can be treated at home with rest, fluids and over-the-counter medicines. If symptoms become more serious, use NHS 111 online or call 111 for advice.
People with weakened immune systems are also encouraged to book a COVID-19 vaccination if eligible, using the NHS App, the NHS website or by calling 119.
If you’re travelling outside the UK, you may need vaccinations to protect against serious diseases found in other countries. Find out more on the NHS website.
Parents and carers can also find advice and support for children’s health on the West Yorkshire Healthier Together website
Dr James Thomas, Medical Director at NHS West Yorkshire Integrated Care Board, said:
“You can help ease pressure on NHS services over the bank holiday by planning ahead particularly by ordering any prescriptions you may need in advance. Please also make sure you’re prepared for your own and your family’s changing health needs at this time of year.
“If you need urgent medical help during the bank holiday, the NHS is here for you. But if it’s not an emergency, use NHS 111 online or call 111 first so you can get the right care and help keep emergency services available for those who need them most.”