As we approach the summer bank holiday break, NHS Lincolnshire ICB is advising parents how to deal with a range of common childhood illnesses – by seeking advice from their local pharmacy.

Young children are more vulnerable to coughs, colds and infections because their immune systems are still developing. That means they tend to become ill more often than adults and can take longer to recover. 

Although it can be worrying when a child becomes poorly, the vast majority of summer illnesses can be managed at home using over-the-counter medicines available from a pharmacist.  Parents are therefore encouraged to visit their local pharmacy first when their children become ill – and be prepared by taking a pharmacist’s advice on available remedies.

Childhood illness can be very stressful for parents, especially those with very young children who aren’t able to articulate exactly what is wrong with them.

In almost all cases, parents can manage their child’s illnesses at home with over-the-counter medication that may ease symptoms, plenty of rest, fluids and TLC.  If your child has symptoms that worry you or that you haven’t seen before, a pharmacist may be able to offer advice.

If your child becomes ill in the night there is information available online at www.nhs.uk or you can contact NHS 111 online or  call 111 if you need urgent medical advice but it’s not a life-threatening emergency.