Dozens of pharmacies across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight will be open throughout Easter weekend, including Good Friday, Easter Sunday, and Easter Monday.

NHS England has released a comprehensive list detailing the various pharmacy locations and their opening times, encouraging visitors to confirm before visiting due to potential changes. These updated schedules allow more residents access to essential services during the long holiday weekend.

In addition to providing essential medication and minor illness advice, many local pharmacies are now authorised to treat several conditions.

These include shingles, sore throats, infected insect bites, earaches, sinusitis, skin infection impetigo, and uncomplicated urinary tract infections—part of a wider programme titled the Pharmacy First scheme.

Residents are urged to use such services to their full potential over the weekend, as emergency departments should be reserved for serious conditions. Key advice includes using online resources such as NHS 111 and regional health websites for expert help.

Urgent Treatment Centres and minor injury units across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight are best suited for urgent but non-life-threatening illnesses and minor injuries.

As self-care remains a crucial aspect of health, resources for personal well-being and medication advice are available on the NHS website.

Dr Lara Alloway, chief medical officer for NHS Hampshire and Isle of Wight said: "In addition to dispensing prescriptions, our local community pharmacy teams provide expert advice on how to treat common health conditions such as colds, aches and tummy troubles. They also offer advice on medication and a range of other services.

"We would also remind people who are on repeat medication to ensure that they check that they have enough supplies to get them through the bank holiday, as obviously, despite the Easter cover, a number of pharmacies will be closed."

Specific guidance for concerned parents of ill children can be found at www.what0-18.nhs.uk.