Pharmacy sector works to aid communities affected by floods

Efforts are being made by the English pharmacy sector to do all it can to help local communities adversely affected by the recent flooding affecting many parts of the country.

A report from PJ Online has noted that many pharmacies have seen their premises damaged or their supply chains disrupted by the floods, but the majority remain open and are continuing to work to meet the needs of stricken residents.

In addition to injuries, flooding brings with it an increased risk of diarrhoea, abdominal pain and anxiety, as well as carbon monoxide poisoning from indoor use of generators.

Most independent pharmacies remain open for business, while leading chain Boots has only had to close one of its stores in Cornwall for a single day.

Royal Pharmaceutical Society president Martin Astbury said: "I'm sure our members will be doing everything they can to help patients affected, as well as having to cope with the devastating consequences that flood water brings to individual premises."

Last week, prime minister David Cameron announced that new funding will be allocated to businesses to help make repairs and take precautions against flooding, a move that will be welcomed by pharmacists affected badly by the extreme weather.