WITH more cold weather on its way, health bosses are reminding people in Worcestershire to keep their medicine cabinet well stocked.

NHS South Worcestershire Clinical Commissioning Group – the organisation responsible for organising and paying for health services in the area – has said every home should have a range of medications and other items to hand to avoid a trip to hospital or the doctors.

Among these are pain relief such as paracetamol and ibuprofen, anti-diarrhoea medicine, sore throat and cough remedies and antihistamines for those with allergies.

Medicine cabinets should also include plasters and bandages, a thermometer, laxatives and – where appropriate – children’s medication.

The CCG’s chief clinical officer Dr Carl Ellson said: “Having home remedies to hand means peace of mind.

“Self-care is often the best remedy in many instances.

“Common ailments such as colds, sore throats and coughs do not always need to be treated with a visit to the GP.

“Instead, the best cure is plenty of rest, keeping warm and a having a good medicine cabinet.”

For more winter health advice visit www.nhs.uk/asap.