A PHARMACY group in Cumbria has warned people that soaring demand over the Coronavirus crisis has led to "immense pressure" on staff.

The group has issued guidance to customers, cautioning people against hoarding medicines and not to come in if they show symptoms of Covid-19 - to protect staff and allow them to keep working in the outbreak

They have asked those that have a dry and persistent cough, fever or shortness of breath - to contact their chemist shop by phone, email, website or social media.

It has also asked that people show patience as staff work round the clock manage prescriptions.

The group has also warned that patients should only order medicines as normal and not to stockpile - which is likely to put additional pressure on the supply chain.

Though shops will remain open wherever possible, they may have to reduce the hours during which they can admit the public.

This is to ensure that pharmacy teams can carry out tasks such as preparing medicines and restocking shelves so that these vital services can continue safely.

Jeff Forster, chief officer of Community Pharmacy Cumbria said: “Community pharmacy teams are a really important part of the NHS - and like all other health workers they are under immense pressure at the moment.

"We are today asking patients and members to the public to take some very simple steps to help protect these teams so that pharmacies can continue to carry out their critical roles and ensure that everyone continues to get the medicines, help and support they need, when they need it.”