One of the hottest May bank holidays in living memory has seen the UK Health Security Agency issue Heat Health alerts for much of England.
The NPA has reminded pharmacies to protect their meds from the heat and direct sunlight, and also to consider their own health while working at a busy pace in sweltering heat.
“Heatwaves can quietly affect our bodies, our breathing, and even the way our medication works,” said Olivier Picard, NPA chair.
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“It’s important we take sensible precautions, including double checking that your medication is stored correctly in a cool dry place as per any storage instructions, ideally below 25 degrees, as well drinking plenty of fluids and keeping your home cool in the hottest hours of the day.”
Travel jabs
Meanwhile, Boots has said those seeking sunshine in far-flung places are not always aware of the jabs they need.
Boots said its research showed that 40% of travellers admitted to being unsure of the vaccination requirements for their planned destinations. This grew to 60% for younger travellers aged 18-24, leaving over a third (35%) unvaccinated before travelling.
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Boots said the biggest barriers to not getting a recommended vaccination include worries about side effects (30%), not thinking it was needed (24%) and lack of time (21%).
Travel health is a growth area Boots is pursuing with a travel health and advice service, and it offers vaccinations for Rabies, Chikungunya, Japanese Encephalitis and Dengue.
