Mereside Medical

27/02/2026

Scarlet fever is a contagious infection that mainly affects children and can cause a sore throat, fever and a distinctive rash.

Early recognition and treatment are important to help reduce the risk of complications and limit spread. Community pharmacies can also offer advice on managing symptoms and when further medical care is needed, making them a helpful first point of contact for many minor illnesses. Knowing the signs and where to get help can support quicker recovery. 🌡️👶🩺✨

Read NHS guidance on scarlet fever: https://ow.ly/Su8J50YiFPk
Read Patient Info advice on scarlet fever in children: https://ow.ly/bgpo50YiFPb
Learn how pharmacies can help (Pharmacy First): https://ow.ly/VeE650YiFPf

25/02/2026

The MMRV vaccine protects against measles, mumps, rubella and varicella (chickenpox) and is an important part of the childhood vaccination schedule.

If your child has missed any vaccines, or if you have recently moved to the UK from another country, it is never too late to catch up. The NHS offers free catch-up vaccinations to help ensure children and adults are protected and up to date. Checking your vaccination record and booking missing doses can help protect both your family and the wider community. 💉🛡️👨‍👩‍👧‍👦✨

Find out about the MMRV vaccine: https://www.nhs.uk/vaccinations/mmrv-vaccine/
Check the NHS vaccination schedule: https://www.nhs.uk/vaccinations/nhs-vaccinations-and-when-to-have-them/

24/02/2026

On 22nd January 2026 we held an online patient event. If you missed it, watch our video to get up to date.

The big news is that AskMyGP is now open 08:00 - 18:30 Monday - Friday. Do tell us how you're finding it here: surveymonkey.com/r/PatientAccess2026

See our YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/ for videos in English, Polskie, Português, Русский, Türkçe, and українська.

23/02/2026

https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/PatientAccess2026

23/02/2026

Children’s dental health is an important part of overall wellbeing, and simple daily habits can help protect young teeth for life.

Drinks that are high in sugar and acidity can damage tooth enamel and increase the risk of decay. Encouraging water or milk, brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, and regular dental check-ups can all support healthy smiles. Starting good oral health habits early can make a lasting difference. 🦷🪥💙✨

Read NHS advice on taking care of children’s teeth: https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/healthy-teeth-and-gums/taking-care-of-childrens-teeth/

20/02/2026

20/02/2026

Using the NHS App to order repeat prescriptions is a quick and convenient way to manage your medicines without needing to contact your GP practice.

You can:
- Log in to the app
- Select your repeat prescription
- Choose your nominated pharmacy
- Track the status. all in one place.

The NHS App can also show when your prescription is ready to collect, helping save time and reduce unnecessary phone calls. You may also be eligible for free or reduced-cost prescriptions, depending on your circumstances, so it’s worth checking what support is available. 📱💊💙✨

Visit the NHS App homepage: https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-app/
Step-by-step guide to prescriptions in the NHS App: https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-app/help/prescriptions-in-the-nhs-app/
Find out about free or reduced-cost prescriptions: https://patient.info/treatment-medication/nhs-and-other-care-options/free-or-reduced-cost-prescriptions

18/02/2026

FAST awareness helps everyone recognise the signs of stroke and act quickly.

Stroke is a medical emergency, and getting help fast can save lives and reduce long-term disability. Knowing your risk factors, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, family history and lifestyle factors, can also help with prevention.

If you notice any signs of stroke, call 999 immediately. ⏱️🧠🚑✨

Learn the signs of stroke (FAST): https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/stroke/symptoms/
Get stroke prevention advice and support: https://www.stroke.org.uk

16/02/2026

Oesophageal Cancer Awareness Month is a time to raise awareness of risk factors, symptoms and the importance of looking after your long-term health.

A family history of cancer, smoking, va**ng, poor diet and long-term acid reflux can all increase risk. Making positive lifestyle changes, such as stopping smoking or va**ng, can help reduce the risk of many cancers and improve overall health.

Knowing the signs and understanding risk factors can support earlier diagnosis and better outcomes. 🎗️🩺💙✨

Read about oesophageal cancer symptoms and treatment: https://ow.ly/AWKO50Yf6WQ
Learn the truth about va**ng: https://ow.ly/CfzQ50Yf6WW
Read about what smoking does to your heart and health: https://ow.ly/epKN50Yf6WX

13/02/2026

National Heart Month is a great time to think about simple ways to protect your heart and improve your long-term health. ❤️🩺💪✨

Checking your blood pressure, understanding your heart age and making positive lifestyle changes like stopping smoking can significantly reduce your risk of heart disease and stroke. Small steps taken today can make a big difference for your future heart health.

If you experience chest pain and tightness, or shortness of breath, call 999 📲

Calculate your heart age: https://ow.ly/MK6c50YcOzL
Check your blood pressure reading: https://ow.ly/bFyH50YcOA1
Read about smoking and your blood pressure: https://ow.ly/MeUo50YcOzA

11/02/2026

Children’s Mental Health Week is a great opportunity to think about how we can support children’s wellbeing in everyday life. 🧠💙📱✨

Creating healthy habits around screen time and internet use, having open conversations about what children see online, and knowing where to find support can all make a positive difference.

For families waiting for neurodiversity or mental health assessments, trusted guidance and early support can help while you’re on the journey. Small, consistent actions at home can help children feel safer, more confident and better supported.

Read about talking to children about healthy internet use: 🔗https://ow.ly/btwY50YcfsW

Explore Parentkind’s online safety toolkit: 🔗https://ow.ly/xfy950Ycft6

Get NSPCC online safety advice for parents and carers: 🔗https://ow.ly/zRlv50Ycfte

Find out more about Children’s Mental Health Week: 🔗https://ow.ly/7Rvg50Ycfti