People suffering from coughs and colds over Christmas and the New Year are encouraged to see their pharmacist as GPs and hospitals prepare for one of their busiest seasons.  

Waltham Forest Clinical Commissioning Group is urging patients with minor ailments to avoid making an appointment with their GP unless it is an emergency.  

Chairman Dr Anwar Khan says people can prepare for the holiday season by stocking their medicine cabinets with essential items.

On Christmas Day Leyton Orient Pharmacy in Oliver Road, Leyton and Leyton Green Pharmacy in Lea Bridge Road, will be open from 8am to 8pm while Blue Dew Pharmacy in Forest Road, Walthamstow will be open from 8am to 11pm. 

People can also call the free NHS 111 number for urgent advice on how to treat their symptoms and if necessary book a GP appointment by calling 020 8519 3999.

Dr Khan said: “Choosing the right service ensures that you receive treatment you need in the right place at the right time – allowing our urgent care teams to focus on those who really need them.

“As well as being a valuable source of advice and offering over-the-counter medicines, in an emergency a pharmacist may be able to supply some of your repeat medication.

“Ordering your repeat prescriptions well in advance will ensure you are well prepared for the four-day Christmas holiday weekend.”

“We know that nobody would choose to see a GP over the holiday period, but if you do feel unwell, and it is not an emergency, or cannot be resolved by a visit to the pharmacist, we would encourage you to take advantage of the weekend/bank holiday opening hours by booking to see a GP at one of the three hubs.”

For a full list of pharmacy opening hours in Waltham Forest click here.