People across Hertfordshire are being encouraged to seek help quickly for minor ailments before they become more serious.

Herts Valleys Clinical Commissioning Group has launched a campaign ‘The earlier, the better’ to encourage people to treat minor illnesses by going to their pharmacist.

The body is advising older people to tell a friend, family member or carer if they have a bad cough, cold or sore throat to prevent it getting worse.

Dr Nicolas Small, who looks after Hertsmere for the commissioning group, said: “It’s easy to forget that our local pharmacists can provide expert guidance on how to help manage long term conditions, or give advice on the best treatment for a cough or cold.

“So it’s essential that older people seek help as soon as possible to prevent a trip to hospital if their condition gets worse. The earlier, the better.”