Public holidays
NHS services during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic
With current public health advice around coronavirus, some services may:
- not be available
- be operating different opening times
- be closed temporarily
We recommend that you contact the service prior to attending.
Search Scotland's Service Directory for your local service.
Ill-health is unwelcome at any time of year but particularly during holidays. We know it’s easy for health to drop off your to-do list when you’re really busy, so we’ve put together this short guide to help you stay well.
Know your GP practice and pharmacy details
On public holidays, your GP practice and pharmacy opening hours are likely to be different from normal.
It’s important to know this information so you can you order and collect any repeat prescriptions you may need in plenty of time.
Check your GP practice details and pharmacy opening times
Accessing medicines
Check your medicine cabinet
Make sure you have some over-the-counter remedies for common seasonal illnesses in your medicine cabinet.
Things to have in your medicine cabinet include:
- paracetamol and ibuprofen for pain relief (check the label or speak to your pharmacist to check it's suitable for you)
- anti-histamines to help allergies
- anti-diarrhoeals and oral rehydration sachets for diarrhoea
- indigestion remedies such as an antacid
- mild laxative for constipation
- a first aid kit
- medicines specifically for children (your pharmacist can advise on the most suitable ones to keep in the house)
Remember that medicines go out of date, so don't overstock your medicine cabinet. Always follow the advice on the pack, and if your symptoms continue (or are severe) get further advice.
NHS Minor Ailment Service
If you have a minor illness, a pharmacist can provide non-prescription medicines free of charge if you're eligible under the NHS Minor Ailment Service.
Managing common seasonal illnesses
Self-help guide
Health information
If you're looking for general health information then you'll find what you are looking for within these sections of NHS inform:
You can also phone or chat online with our health information team on 0800 22 44 88 (Textphone users dial 18001 0800 22 44 88) from:
- Monday to Friday, 8.00am to 10.00pm
- Saturday and Sunday, 9.00am to 5.00pm
