This in from the Isle of Wight NHS in their own words. Ed
If you take regular medication make sure you bring a supply with you, especially if you are camping for the weekend. It is also a good idea to have a pack of plasters and some disinfectant for minor grazes and cuts, and medication for headaches and stomach upsets.
Sickness and diarrhoea is the last thing you want to get.
Reduce your risk of picking up or spreading the germs that cause it by cleaning your hands regularly. It’s a good idea to take wet wipes and antibacterial hand gel to use on your hands after going to the toilet and before you eat.
‘Wight Medicine’
If you are in need of supplies, the Isle of Wight NHS Trust Pharmacy team organise and run a GPhC registered pharmacy under the name ‘Wight Medicine’ and will be at the Festival again this year.
They are able to provide Festival goers with over the counter remedies and emergency supplies for common problems such as hay fever, eye infections, headaches, sun protection, sunburn, blisters, indigestion, bites and stings.
Chief Pharmacist Gill Honeywell says:
“In addition to providing over the counter remedies we provide an important advice service and are also able to supply free condoms.
“We are a first point of contact for many people who may need referral on to the First Aid or Medical Centres and whilst supporting self care, the Pharmacy allows the medical teams to concentrate on more serious problems. In previous years we have helped over 1,000 customers so we’re expecting to have a busy weekend. Look out for us in the Main Arena.”
Emergency Contraception
If you feel your contraception has let you down or you feel you might need emergency contraception, or any other sexual health advice whilst at the Festival, speak to the onsite medics and they will be able to signpost you to the appropriate services.
Alcohol Use
If you drink alcohol, drink sensibly and stick within the recommended limits. You don’t want to miss your favourite band the next day because of a hangover. Alcohol dehydrates you, so it is important to drink plenty of water throughout the day. Men shouldn’t regularly drink more than three to four units a day. For women, it’s two to three units.
Drugs
Taking drugs and legal highs is never a good idea and especially in a new place with large crowds as you could end up experiencing paranoia, confusion and a range of nasty side effects. The Island Recovery Integrated Service (IRIS) Team will be on site promoting the new local service and giving advice and support on the use of drugs and alcohol and raising awareness of the side effects. The IRIS Team will be situated in the Welfare tent in Electric Lady Land along with the IW NHS Trust Membership team who will be recruiting for members to the Trust.
The majority of services provided by Isle of Wight NHS Trust are commissioned and funded by Isle of Wight Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG), NHS England and Isle of Wight Council.
Image: tenspeedphotography under CC BY 2.0
