Chief Executive's column - August 2021

We are now in the peak of the summer holidays, schools and colleges have broken up and many people are taking staycations this year, or going on days out, due to the restrictions around travel caused by the pandemic.

In Lincolnshire, our East coast area in particular becomes very busy with visitors and the healthcare services, which operate on the East coast become very busy too.

Preparing for your holiday or day out is exciting, but as well as packing your bucket, spade and umbrella, please take a moment to think about your health needs too. Do you take regular medication? If so have you enough to last for your holiday? Do you need to order extra medication to take with you?

Sun cream with a high UV factor is essential even during a typical British summer as even on cloudy days the UV rays can get through to your skin and cause damage. Do you have suitable clothing and hats for the many variations of weather we experience?

A basic first aid kit is a great to have handy too. It could help with minor ailments, such as stomach upsets, allergies, headaches and insect bites. There’s more information on what to keep in your first aid kit on the NHS website.

Summer conditions, such as sunburn or dehydration can be easily prevented, by applying sun cream, drinking plenty of water and seeking shade. But if you do feel unwell, whilst you’re away from home, please choose well where you look for help.  Visit the local pharmacist first. They are trained clinicians who can provide expert advice on how to help manage illnesses, as well as offer guidance on the best treatments.

We also have NHS 111 and NHS 111 online, which are free services available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. You can call 111 from a mobile or landline to speak to an advisor to get help or type in 111.nhs.uk on your phone or device and press the green start button to get medical help. These services offer advice for people with urgent, but not life-threatening symptoms. Always contact NHS 111 first, it can save you time as they can book you an appointment at a local health facility if you need one.

The Summer months are also when allergies can worsen. Asthma, eczema and hay fever symptoms can increase with more sneezing, coughing, skin rashes and shortness of breath. Allergy sufferers can prepare by getting the medicines they need from their local pharmacist. You can find more information about hay fever and allergies on the NHS website

And of course, please remember, Covid-19 won’t be taking a break this summer. Where possible please try to ensure you maintain social distancing, wash your hands before and after eating, follow guidance on wearing face coverings and remember: HANDS FACE SPACE. There’s more advice available at www.gov.uk/coronavirus

Please play your part this summer and help protect Lincolnshire.