How can I get vital medicine during the coronavirus lockdown?

To help stop the spread of Covid-19 we're all working under the most stringent measures restricting public movement in peacetime in the UK.

For many of us, it has brought huge change to our lives.

Our shopping trips should be for essentials and as infrequent as possible.

We must only travel to work if we absolutely can't work from home and we're allowed one period of exercise per day.

And we are allow to travel for medical reasons, to collect medicines or to care for someone.

As with food shops, there has been pressure on pharmacies as many people try to stock up on medicine and that's adding pressure to the system as queues build up at chemists.

  • ITV News Anglia has put together a video with some helpful advice on getting your prescriptions

According to the NHS, the demand for repeat prescriptions has increased by about 50% since the strict social distancing and self isolation guidance.

That is putting immense pressure on dispensaries and pharmacies in the East of England leading the NHS to plead with patients not to stockpile medication or order repeat prescriptions early.

The advice is to order your repeat prescription no more than 10 days before you're due to run out and you can only be issued with one month's supply.

  • Can I order prescriptions from my GP's surgery?

Yes - but not in person. The advice remains to stay away from GP's surgeries if you possibly can

Most have moved to a telephone only service to help prevent the spread of the virus.

You can order it over the phone at your local GP, or there are options online.

Many surgeries have services like AskMyGP or SystmOnline, where you can place an order for a repeat prescription without picking up the phone.

You may encounter social distancing measures at your pharmacy, such as one-in, one-out rules but they're still open for business. Credit: Victoria Jones/PA Wire/PA Images

  • When can I collect my medication?

Whenever you need to.

Collecting medication is classed as essential travel under the government's guidelines.

You may encounter social distancing measures at your pharmacy, such as one-in, one-out rules but they're still open for business.

There are many options for delivery services online and many are free. Credit: PA Images

  • What if I am not able to collect the medication myself?

Some people might find themselves without means of collecting their medication - if they're particularly ill, or don't have carers to depend on.

There are many options for delivery services online - and many are free.

Many high street chemists allow you to sign up online and will deliver to your door.

If this isn't an option, you could call upon a neighbour or friend to pick up your prescription.

The NHS is also recruiting hundreds of thousands of volunteers to help with things like picking up prescriptions.

Members of the public queue to enter a Lloyds Pharmacy in Melton Mowbray, allowing a two metre gap between individuals. Credit: Mike Egerton/PA Wire/PA Images

Coronavirus: Everything you need to know