With nationally reported norovirus cases already double the usual rate for this time of year, the local NHS has issued advice to help prevent minor illnesses and injuries from disrupting half term plans.

Norovirus, also called the "winter vomiting bug", is a stomach bug that causes vomiting and diarrhoea. Washing hands frequently with soap and warm water is the best way to stop it spreading.

For most, winter illnesses will be mild and can be self-treated at home with rest, over-the-counter medications like paracetamol or ibuprofen, or with help and advice from a pharmacist.

A well-stocked first aid kit of bandages, plasters, sterile dressings, medical tape and tweezers can help prevent a trip to the pharmacy, GP practice, minor injury unit or urgent treatment centre.  

If medical support is needed for a minor illness or condition, local community pharmacies will be able to help in many cases – including through the Pharmacy First initiative, which helps patients get treatment for seven common conditions without needing a GP prescription.

These conditions include earache, urinary tract infections and sinusitis. Since its launch earlier this year, there have already been almost 44,000 Pharmacy First consultations in the area, helping people get the support they need without a visit to their GP.

For urgent advice for a medical concern that is not a life-threatening or limb-threatening emergency, people can use 111 online or call 111 24/7, free of charge, anywhere in England.

Anyone who requires help with a medical issue should use their nearest community pharmacy or NHS 111 for advice.

For those planning to go away during half-term, be sure to order and collect any repeat prescriptions in advance, to avoid running out.

This can be done through the NHS app or NHS online, with many GP practices offering the option to order via their website.

Latest advice on treating common illnesses can be found on NHS.uk or by downloading the NHS APP.