PEOPLE in Oxfordshire are being reminded to stock up their medicine cabinets and order repeat prescriptions in time for Christmas and the New Year break.

Over the festive period most pharmacists and GP surgeries will be closed so patients are advised to plan ahead and order prescriptions at least five days before.

Dr Joe McManners, the chairman of Oxfordshire Clinical Commissioning Group, said: "It is important to plan ahead for any required repeat prescriptions over the holiday break, so please order early and collect in good time.

"We also remind people to keep an eye out for elderly family and neighbours over the Christmas period.

"There is a lot you can do to help people who are frailer than you like making sure their home is heated to at least 18°C."

During winter most coughs, colds and sneezes are viral and can be dealt with by a pharmacist over Christmas. Most pharmacies have private consultation areas.

Those eligible are also being reminded that it is not too late to get the flu vaccination.

Anyone who needs help over the winter period when their GP surgery or pharmacy is closed should call NHS 111 and speak to a call adviser who will be able to direct them to a local service that is open.

To view pharmacy opening times over Christmas and the New Year 2016/17 in Oxfordshire see here or visit: http://www.oxfordshireccg.nhs.uk/your-health/pharmacy-opening-hours/

Click here to view a short film of a local pharmacist providing advice about staying well this winter or view here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-xvhtg2sS0k&feature=youtu.be