GP surgeries in Somerset, which usually close over the Bank Holiday weekend, will be staying open over the Easter break to support patients during the coronavirus outbreak.

They will now be open today (Friday) and Monday (April 13) between 8am and 6.30pm – but patients must make an appointment.

Services may be provided by individual practices or as part of collaborative efforts by groups of practices working together.

Dr Emma Keane, GP and associate clinical director of primary care, Somerset Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG), said: “Somerset residents can ring their GP practice as usual to make an appointment. Patients will be triaged online or over the phone to make sure that patients are cared for by the right person, in the right place for their illness.    “Our main priority will be supporting patients with urgent needs. If people need to be seen face to face they will be.”

She advised using NHS 111 online first for advice. GP practice websites have links to a range of online services and, in most cases, repeat prescriptions can be ordered online.

Community pharmacies will also be opening today and on Monday. To find a pharmacy, go to the NHS website and ‘service search find a pharmacy’.