Keeping your child healthy during new school term 

As the summer holidays draw to a close, doctors in Kent and Medway are reminding parents and carers to be ready to cope with any back-to-school illness or injury.

Make sure you have a well-stocked medicine cabinet at home with the basic essentials, such as paracetamol, ibuprofen, cold remedies, indigestion treatment and antihistamine.

If your child has a suspected broken bone or fracture, a sprain or a strain, minor cut, burn or scald, you can visit an urgent treatment centre. Find your nearest centre on our website.

Coughs and colds are common from this time of year onwards, but parents should remember that antibiotics aren’t usually the answer. Plenty of fluids and rest should be enough to help fight off germs and symptoms will usually ease within five to seven days. 

Pharmacists can provide expert, free, confidential advice on common child health issues such as head lice, upset stomach, conjunctivitis and threadworms. You can simply turn up and ask for advice with no prior appointment. Use our map to find your nearest pharmacy. 

Visit www.StopThinkChoose.co.uk to read our guide to local services.