AN increase in the number of people with respiratory conditions such as coughs and colds has been reported in the Bradford district.

In the last week, GP practices across Bradford and Craven have seen high numbers of patients with coughs and colds - with one GP group with 10 surgeries receiving more than 2,000 online requests and more then 800 phone calls.

To help free up capacity in GP practices, Bradford District and Craven Health and Care Partnership is urging people to speak to their pharmacist first to get advice for treating coughs and colds.

Louise Clarke, GP and programme director for healthy communities at Bradford District and Craven Health and Care Partnership, said: "Community pharmacists are part of the NHS family and are qualified healthcare professionals who can offer clinical advice and over-the-counter medicines for a range of minor health ailments such as coughs and colds.

"By following the expert advice of community pharmacists, you can be seen without the need for an appointment, which not only helps relieve demand on GP practices, but most importantly prevents an illness getting worse and getting well again sooner."

To find your nearest pharmacy, visit nhs.uk/find-a-pharmacy

NHS 111 online is also available for non-urgent medical advice.