The home medicine chest is the theme of this year's cold and 'flu campaign by the Consumer Health Information Centre (CHIC). The centre, which is funded by the Proprietary Association of Great Britain, is encouraging responsible self-treatment of minor ailments, including colds and 'flu. As part of its campaign, CHIC has produced fact sheets tailored for women, elderly people, families with young children, travellers and young people, suggesting products to include in the home medicines chest. Suggestions particularly for colds and 'flu include a decongestant, cough medicine, throat lozenges/pastilles, analgesics for headaches and general cold relief products.
CHIC says that being prepared by stocking the home medicines chest is particularly important this year because of the extended Christmas and new year period when pharmacies and general practitioners' surgeries will be closed for longer than usual. People seeking advice from their pharmacist in advance of the holiday period and buying items to treat minor ailments, which could strike unexpectedly, will reduce the pressure on emergency GP surgeries and accident and emergency departments, says CHIC.