Coronavirus: Social gatherings above six banned in England from 14 September

Coronavirus: Social gatherings above six banned in England from 14 September Social gatherings of more than six people will be illegal in England from Monday - with some exemptions - amid a steep rise in coronavirus cases.

The law change will ban larger groups meeting anywhere socially indoors or outdoors, the government said.

But it will not apply to schools, workplaces or Covid-secure weddings, funerals and organised team sports. BBC News

See also:

• Coronavirus: 'People have relaxed too much' BBC News
• Coronavirus: Government apologises over tests shortage BBC News
• Coronavirus: Oxford University vaccine trial paused after participant falls ill BBC News
• Coronavirus: Hancock warns that young people can face severe symptoms BBC News
• Coronavirus: Five reasons why rise in cases is not all it seems BBC News
• Rising Covid-19 cases are headed by a three-fold rise in infections in people in teens and 20s The Daily Mail
• Covid-19 in Britain: a summer of mixed messages The Guardian
• UK's public spending watchdog estimates £210bn coronavirus bill The Guardian
• Why is there a problem with getting a test for Covid-19 in the UK? The Guardian

NHS can save lives by giving data to tech giants, says Matt Hancock

NHS can save lives by giving data to tech giants, says Matt Hancock The NHS will become an "open door" to tech giants by handing over patient data, the Health Secretary has said.

Matt Hancock said he was embarking on reforms to end "a culture of hiding data away" in the NHS, promising collaborations with tech companies would create new technologies that would "save lives". The Daily Telegraph

Prostate cancer referrals 'dropped by HALF during lockdown'

Prostate cancer referrals 'dropped by HALF during lockdown' Urgent GP referrals for prostate cancer have dropped to the lowest level for ten years, NHS data reveals. Experts say the fall means around 3,500 cases of advanced cancer haven't been diagnosed. The Daily Mail

Northampton General denies Guardian claim hospital 'could be overwhelmed by second wave in winter'

Northampton General denies Guardian claim hospital 'could be overwhelmed by second wave in winter' Northampton General Hospital has been named on a list of trusts that "could be overwhelmed" by a second wave of coronavirus during winter, according to a study by The Guardian.

The national newspaper reported yesterday (September 7) a claim that the hospital would be 11 per cent over full capacity if it faced a Covid-19 outbreak on the scale of what it faced in April and May during the seasonal pressures it faced last winter. Northampton Chronicle and Echo

See also:

• Coronavirus: Priest in Kettering confirms positive test in 'area of concern' town BBC Northampton
• Kettering college worker tests positive for Covid-19 Northamptonshire Telegraph

Public perceptions of health and social care in light of COVID-19

 Public perceptions of health and social care in light of COVID-19 The Health Foundation commissioned Ipsos MORI to carry out a survey of the general public in Great Britain to gather their views on a range of health and care issues in light of COVID-19.

This new polling data looks at the public’s attitudes towards the Government’s handling of COVID-19 and the measures it has taken to tackle the outbreak so far. The data shows a significant change in the public’s perceptions on these issues since May this year, when the first round of this polling by Ipsos MORI was carried out.

Maternity services in smaller hospitals: a call to action

Maternity services in smaller hospitals: a call to action In rural and remote areas, the closure of maternity units can mean longer transfer times and poorer support for obstetric emergencies, but the viability of smaller maternity units is often questioned. This working paper discusses the issues affecting the delivery of safe and effective maternity services and serves as a call to action for areas of improvement that are within the control of employers and national organisations. Nuffield Trust

New guidance on health and wellbeing conversations

New guidance on health and wellbeing conversations New guidance for employers on implementing health and wellbeing conversations in their NHS organisations has been published by NHS England and NHS Improvement. NHS Employers

The future of post-Brexit regulation

The future of post-Brexit regulation This paper brings together experts from government, the medical community, and the life sciences industry and discusses the steps the UK must take to deliver a dynamic and responsive regulatory system for medicines and medical devices post-Brexit. Reform

Failure to Act: How tech giants continue to defy calls to rein in vaccine misinformation

 Failure to Act: How tech giants continue to defy calls to rein in vaccine misinformation A Covid vaccine could save thousands of lives. But misinformation about vaccines is rife on social media. Social media giants claim they are cracking down on dangerous Covid-related misinformation. Our latest report, produced with Restless Development, audits their efforts. Youth volunteers anonymously identified and reported misinformation to social media platforms. We found fewer than 1 in 20 posts were dealt with. Centre for Countering Digital Hate

Guidance: Coronavirus (COVID-19): looking after people who lack mental capacity

Guidance: Coronavirus (COVID-19): looking after people who lack mental capacity Guidance for health and social care staff who are caring for, or treating, a person who lacks the relevant mental capacity. Department of Health and Social Care

See also:

• Guidance: COVID-19: long-term health effects Public Health England
• Guidance: COVID-19: reducing transmission – what you can do to help Public Health England
• Research and analysis: Weight management services during COVID-19: phase 1 insights Public Health England

Coronavirus: Warnings from scientists as UK cases continue to rise

Coronavirus: Warnings from scientists as UK cases continue to rise The UK is entering a "period of particular concern" as the number of coronavirus cases rise across the country, the housing secretary says.

Robert Jenrick said "we all have to be very cautious" after 2,948 new UK cases were recorded on Monday.

It comes after two of the government's scientific advisers gave stark warnings over the rise in cases. BBC News

See also:

• Coronavirus: 'Long Covid' patients need treatment programme, doctors say BBC News
• Matt Hancock: 'Risk of second wave without young social distancing' BBC News
• Britain confirms another 2,948 cases of coronavirus The Daily Mail
• Coronavirus UK: Winter wave 'could overwhelm 87% NHS hospitals' The Daily Mail
• Vaccine for coronavirus most likely to come in 'first few months' of 2021, Matt Hancock reveals The Daily Mail
• GPs handled three times more suspected COVID-19 cases than official data show GPonline
• Young people largely behind steep rise in UK Covid cases – Hancock The Guardian
• Coronavirus: Ministers have ‘lost control of the virus’, says health expert following spike in cases The Independent
• Coronavirus: Lung damage in Covid-19 patients appears to improve after several months, study shows The Independent

'I had to be sectioned': the NHS staff broken and burned out by Covid

'I had to be sectioned': the NHS staff broken and burned out by Covid With high levels of stress, anxiety and PTSD, experts worry that staff won’t be able to cope with a second wave

In April, when the coronavirus outbreak was at its peak in the UK and tearing through hospitals, junior doctor Rebecca Thornton’s mental health took a turn for the worse and she ended up having to be sectioned. The Guardian

Coronavirus: Corby and Kettering named 'areas of concern'

Coronavirus: Corby and Kettering named 'areas of concern' An increase in Covid-19 cases among 20- to 29-year-olds with "active social lives" has led to two towns being added to the government's Covid-19 watchlist.

Corby and Kettering have been named as "Areas of Concern". BBC Northampton

See also:

• Coronavirus: Why have cases spiked in Corby?  BBC Northampton
• Coronavirus: Corby students travel on buses without social-distancing BBC Northampton
• At least six English NHS trusts could be overwhelmed by Covid spike this winter The Guardian
• Staff absences more than TRIPLED at Northampton General Hospital during the peak of the Covid-19 crisis Northampton Chronicle and Echo
• Northampton downgraded from ‘area of intervention’ to ‘area of enhanced support’ as Covid cases fall Northampton Chronicle and Echo
• 'We could slip towards lockdown really easily': Northampton Market Square testing centre will not be moved for foreseeable future, council leader says Northampton Chronicle and Echo
• Northants' match is abandoned after just two hours due to confirmed Covid-19 case in the County camp Northampton Chronicle and Echo
• Local lockdown would be 'damaging' for Corby says leader Northamptonshire Telegraph

Help celebrate special staff and volunteers at Northampton General Hospital awards

Help celebrate special staff and volunteers at Northampton General Hospital awards The annual awards are an opportunity for patients, families and carers to tell the hospital about the staff and volunteers who have made a difference to their hospital experience, provided the best possible care or have helped to bring improvements to services and the care that patients receive. Northampton Chronicle and Echo

Heartless Corby hospital carer burgled her elderly patients' homes

Heartless Corby hospital carer burgled her elderly patients' homes A heartless hospital worker burgled the homes of two elderly patients she was supposed to be looking after.

Leanne Jones stole bank cards and keys from her victims while they were inpatients at Corby Community Hospital - before taking jewellery and cashing cheques worth thousands after finding out where they lived. Northamptonshire Telegraph

The impact of Covid-19 on the use of digital technology in the NHS

The impact of Covid-19 on the use of digital technology in the NHS The Covid-19 pandemic has resulted in the adoption of digital technology in the NHS and changes to the way services are delivered at an incredible pace. So as the health service works hard to get back to something like normality, are all the elements of this sea change in digital practice positive, or do some adaptations need further scrutiny before they become more deeply embedded? Nuffield Trust

Left stranded: our new report into the impact of coronavirus

Left stranded: new report into the impact of coronavirus The coronavirus outbreak has affected everyone. But it’s left many autistic people andtheir families completely stranded. Our new report, supported by four other leading autism organisations, highlights the often disproportionate and devastating impact the mental health, wellbeing and education prospects of hundreds of thousands of autistic people and their families. National Autistic Society

See also:

• Autistic people left completely stranded during pandemic The Daily Telegraph

Wellcome monitor 2020: Covid-19 study

Wellcome monitor 2020: Covid-19 study This report presents the results of the fifth Wellcome monitor. It looks at findings around the British public’s experience of the Covid-19 pandemic and their views on health information during lockdown. Wellcome

You had one job: the shortcomings of Public Health England and the World Health Organization during the Covid-19 pandemic

You had one job: the shortcomings of Public Health England and the World Health Organization during the Covid-19 pandemic This report looks at the criticisms of the World Health Organization and Public Health England regarding their response to the Covid-19 pandemic. It argues that both organisations spread themselves too thinly over a broad range of medical, political and social issues, leading to a lack of focus. Institute of Economic Affairs

Covid-19 insights: impact on workforce skills

Covid-19 insights: impact on workforce skills This report confirms that the pandemic has had wider than expected consequences on the NHS and health and care workforce which will continue to significantly influence service delivery for some time to come. The findings show that following three months of extreme change in the sector, organisations suffered severe skills loss. The report highlights the critical issues which contributed to this, with the aim of supporting the sector to rebuild and reset for a sustainable future, both now and in the long-term. Skills for Health

Government delivers 250,000 clear face masks to support people with hearing loss

Government delivers 250,000 clear face masks to support people with hearing loss 250,000 clear face masks are to be delivered to frontline NHS and social care workers to support better care for people who use lip-reading and facial expressions to communicate. Department of Health and Social Care

See also:

• New Lighthouse Lab to boost NHS Test and Trace capacity Department of Health and Social Care
• Research and analysis: National COVID-19 surveillance reports Public Health England

Coronavirus: Further 2,988 cases confirmed in UK

Coronavirus: Further 2,988 cases confirmed in UK A further 2,988 cases of coronavirus have been reported in the UK in the past 24 hours, government data showed. 

It is the highest number reported on a single day since 22 May and a rise of 1,175 on Saturday, according to the UK government's coronavirus dashboard.

Health Secretary Matt Hancock said he was "concerned" about a rise in cases "predominantly among young people". BBC News

See also:

• Coronavirus: 'Critical moment' as students return to university BBC News
• Coronavirus: Schools 'no greater risk than home' for pupils and staff BBC News
• Coronavirus case numbers 'remain unchanged' in England BBC News
• Coronavirus: India overtakes Brazil in Covid-19 cases BBC News
• Air passengers might be screened again eight days after arriving in UK The Daily Mail
• Why are Covid death rates so low when cases are are soaring? The Daily Mail
• 400 people per day died in UK's care homes at peak of Covid crisis The Daily Mail
• Pfizer expects results from its coronavirus vaccine trials by October, CEO confirms The Daily Mail
• Rising cases in the UK sees countries tighten restrictions on British tourists The Daily Telegraph
• Exclusive: Airport testing reduces rates of infections better than quarantine, data shows The Daily Telegraph
• Matt Hancock: England in good position to avoid major Covid resurgence The Guardian
• Hospitals in England will miss target for restoring pre-Covid services The Guardian
• Rights watchdog backs court action over Covid deaths in English care homes The Guardian
• Coronavirus: More than 1000 doctors want to leave NHS over government's mishandling of pandemic The Independent

Esketamine spray for treating depression 'not cost-effective'

Esketamine spray for treating depression 'not cost-effective' A nasal esketamine spray for hard-to-treat depression has been rejected for use on the NHS for a second time because of uncertainty over cost.

Despite a need for new treatments for adults, it is also not clear how well the drug works long term, the healthcare watchdog NICE said.

Esketamine is a form of ketamine that targets a chemical linked with learning and memory. BBC News

Two-thirds of black Britons believe NHS gives white people better care, finds survey

Two-thirds of black Britons believe NHS gives white people better care, finds survey Almost two-thirds of black Britons think the NHS does less to protect their health than that of white people, research has found.

That negative view of the health service is shared by a majority of black people of almost all ages, and is held especially strongly by black women, according to findings of a study commissioned by a parliamentary committee. The Guardian

See also:

• Joint Committee on Human Rights publishes research ahead of evidence session on Monday on whether black people feel their human rights are protected Joint Committee on Human Rights
• The black community and human rights (report) Clearview Research

Blood tests may detect psychotic disorders years BEFORE they start

Blood tests may detect psychotic disorders years BEFORE they start A simple blood test can predict who will suffer psychotic disorders later in life, scientists claim.

Researchers from the Royal College of Surgeons University in Dublin took samples from more than 100 people deemed high risk of developing the conditions.

Using computer imaging and machine learning to look at hundreds of proteins in the blood, they were able to correctly tell who suffer them 93 per cent of the time. The Daily Mail

See also:

• Development of Proteomic Prediction Models for Transition to Psychotic Disorder in the Clinical High-Risk State and Psychotic Experiences in Adolescence (open access) JAMA Psychiatry

KGH staff helping four major Covid-19 research trials

KGH staff helping four major Covid-19 research trials Doctors and nurses at Kettering General Hospital are helping four major research studies into Covid-19 to help make the world a safer place.

The hospital - which is also the top-recruiting trust in the country in a Covid-19 sniffer dog trial - is playing a vital role in studies around the world. Northamptonshire Telegraph

See also:

• Fewer new Covid-19 cases in Northampton — but now it's Corby and Kettering in the spotlight Northampton Chronicle and Echo
• Coronavirus warning leaflet sent to Kettering wards with rising cases Northamptonshire Telegraph
• Double Covid blow for Corby Wetherspoons pubs Northamptonshire Telegraph

Decision making in a crisis: First responses to the coronavirus pandemic

Decision making in a crisis: First responses to the coronavirus pandemic The government’s initial response to the Covid-19 crisis was hampered by the absence of a long-term strategy, lack of clarity about who was responsible for what and its poor use of evidence.

This report examines decisions made in three areas: economic support, Covid-19 testing and the lockdown. Institute for Government

Government working with midwives, medical experts, and academics to investigate BAME maternal mortality

Government working with midwives, medical experts, and academics to investigate BAME maternal mortality Minister for Equalities leads discussion to tackle Black, Asian and minority ethnic (BAME) maternal mortality. Government Equalities Office

People urged to practise safer sex as gonorrhoea cases in England rise by 26%

People urged to practise safer sex as gonorrhoea cases in England rise by 26% A significant increase in annual gonorrhoea diagnoses has prompted health officials to warn of the need to practise safe sex. Public Health England

See also:

• Official Statistics: Sexually transmitted infections (STIs): annual data tables Public Health England
• Rise in gonorrhoea cases in England prompts safe sex warning BBC News

£500 million funding for quick result COVID-19 test trials

£500 million funding for quick result COVID-19 test trials A new £500 million funding package will be invested in next generation testing technology and increased testing capacity. Department of Health and Social Care

Coronavirus testing rationed amid outbreaks

Coronavirus testing rationed amid outbreaks Prioritising coronavirus testing in high-risk areas has led to shortages in other places, leading to some people with symptoms being asked to drive more than 100 miles for a swab.

The government says areas with fewer Covid-19 cases have had their testing capacity reduced to cope with outbreaks elsewhere.

But public health experts warn this could miss the start of new spikes. BBC News

See also:

• As summer ends, UK must square up to Covid again BBC News
• Coronavirus: Facebook, Twitter and YouTube 'fail to tackle anti-vaccination posts' BBC News
• Coronavirus: Charity seeks judicial review on care home visit guidance BBC News
• Coronavirus: Cheap steroids save lives from severe Covid BBC News
• Novavax's experimental coronavirus vaccine triggered antibodies in 100% of trial participants The Daily Mail
• Care home worker, 31, becomes first Brit to catch Covid-19 twice The Daily Mail
• School reopening and flu season mean surge in Covid-19 patients, says WHO Europe director The Daily Mail
• Mass weekly Covid-19 testing of population to be trialled in England The Guardian
• Coronavirus tracked: 57 countries see surge in new cases as global count passes 25m The Independent
• Patients at risk as cash-strapped councils outsource services in middle of pandemic, warn NHS bosses The Independent

Deaths at home higher than normal - ONS figures

Deaths at home higher than normal - ONS figures Deaths of people in their own homes were far above normal levels in July in contrast to below-average levels of non-Covid-19 deaths in hospitals and care homes, figures show.

The Office for National Statistics says patients in England and Wales may not be being admitted to hospital or they are discharged earlier than usual. BBC News

Twenty-one ‘wholly preventable’ patient safety incidents reported in private hospitals last year

Twenty-one ‘wholly preventable’ patient safety incidents reported in private hospitals last year 287 out of 595 private hospitals and NHS private patient units, accounting for 86 per cent of privately-funded care, provided information on ‘Never Events’ last year. The Independent

See also:

• New data reveals serious patient safety incidents in private acute care Private Healthcare Information Network

A dozen children under five among nearly 850 Covid-19 patients in 142 days at Northampton General Hospital

A dozen children under five among nearly 850 Covid-19 patients in 142 days at Northampton General Hospital NHS staff on the Covid-19 front line Northampton General Hospital dealt with nearly 850 patients during 142 days of the pandemic — including a dozen youngsters under five-years-old. Northamptonshire Telegraph

See also:

• Four Northampton primary schools share how they are ready for the return of all children Northampton Chronicle and Echo
• Mayor of Northampton thanks volunteers who have helped more than 1,000 people during the pandemic Northampton Chronicle and Echo
• Will Wollaston's Covid-19 mortuary become Northamptonshire's permanent facility? Northampton Chronicle and Echo
• Coronavirus rates in north Northants remain "significantly higher" than England rate Northamptonshire Telegraph

How Covid-19 has magnified some of social care’s key problems

How Covid-19 has magnified some of social care’s key problems  The pandemic has shone an uncompromising light on the social care sector. In this long read Simon Bottery explores how Covid-19 has exacerbated pre-existing challenges. The King's Fund

Fixing social care: the fundamental choice

Fixing social care: the fundamental choice This report weighs up the three leading options for social care reform, ranking them by cost, political feasibility and impact on supply. It concludes that, of the options being considered, a pension-style model would be most cost-effective, while also increasing supply and meeting the increasing demand for social care. It would also better protect people’s assets and benefit a greater number of families. Centre for Policy Studies

Greater Manchester coronavirus rules 'illogical', mayor says

Greater Manchester coronavirus rules 'illogical', mayor says Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham has blasted the easing of coronavirus restrictions in parts of northern England as "completely illogical".

Measures were lifted overnight in Bolton, Stockport and Trafford despite concerns from some local councils. BBC News

See also:

• NIH panel says not enough data showing plasma therapy is effective at treating coronavirus The Daily Mail
• AstraZeneca begins final trials of Oxford University coronavirus vaccine enrolling 50,000 people The Daily Mail
• NHS workers with no mask won't be paid if they need to self-isolate, warns hospital head The Daily Telegraph
• Good news for vaccine - coronavirus-fighting antibodies last longer than scientists thought The Daily Telegraph
• British holidaymakers heading to Portugal should 'only travel if they are content to unexpectedly quarantine' warns UK Ambassador The Daily Telegraph
• England test and trace system in global 'top tranche', says Hancock The Guardian
• As a paramedic in England, I’m shocked at assaults on ambulance staff during Covid The Guardian
• Coronavirus: Europe can ‘learn to live with’ Covid-19 through local lockdowns, says WHO director The Independent

Health leaders warn Boris Johnson over axing of Public Health England

Health leaders warn Boris Johnson over axing of Public Health England More than 70 organisations have written to the prime minister with concerns about the future of health improvement

The abolition of Public Health England will damage the fight against obesity, smoking and alcohol misuse, the UK’s doctors and public health experts have told the prime minister. The Guardian

NHS increasingly reliant on GPs aged over 55 as workforce crisis grows

NHS increasingly reliant on GPs aged over 55 as workforce crisis grows General practice is becoming increasingly reliant on doctors aged over 55 at a time when early retirements in the profession have surged, GPonline analysis of official workforce data shows. GPonline

Northampton council leader: 'Huge relief to see coronavirus infection rate decreasing but we are extremely worried about complacency'

Northampton council leader: 'Huge relief to see coronavirus infection rate decreasing but we are extremely worried about complacency' Northampton council's leader expressed his 'huge relief' at the town's coronavirus infection rate decreasing but he is 'extremely worried' about it going back up. Northampton Chronicle and Echo

See also:

• Detailed guide: Northampton: Greencore restrictions Department of Health and Social Care
• Return to schools 'will likely' lead to outbreaks of coronavirus in Northamptonshire, warns public health director Northamptonshire Telegraph
• Rise in Covid-19 cases in Corby and Kettering linked to young people socialising Northamptonshire Telegraph
• First coronavirus death at KGH in over a month Northamptonshire Telegraph

Most Approve of National Response to COVID-19 in 14 Advanced Economies

Most Approve of National Response to COVID-19 in 14 Advanced Economies Countries’ approaches to combat the spread of the coronavirus have varied throughout Europe, North America, Australia, Japan and South Korea, but most publics in these regions believe their own country has done a good job of dealing with the outbreak, according to a new Pew Research Center survey of 14 advanced economies. Overall, a median of 73% across the nations say their country has done a good job of handling novel coronavirus

See also:

• Britain and the US are bottom of the pile in rankings of how governments have handled Covid-19 The Daily Mail

The good childhood report 2020

The good childhood report 2020 This report finds that there has been a continued decrease in average happiness with life among 10-15 year olds in the UK. It discovered that 15-year olds in the UK were among the saddest and least satisfied with their lives in Europe and that the coronavirus pandemic affected children’s happiness due to the lack of choice they had in life. The Children's Society

NHS ‘lifeline’ for hundreds of stroke survivors

NHS ‘lifeline’ for hundreds of stroke survivors Hundreds of NHS patients have received personal, specialised care thanks to a new service set up during the coronavirus pandemic. Stroke Connect, a partnership with the NHS and the Stroke Association provides stroke survivors with support and advice in the early days following hospital discharge, without having to leave the house. NHS England

Funding boost for artificial intelligence in NHS to speed up diagnosis of deadly diseases

Funding boost for artificial intelligence in NHS to speed up diagnosis of deadly diseases Patients will benefit from major improvements in technology to speed up the diagnosis of deadly diseases like cancer thanks to further investment in the use of artificial intelligence (AI) across the NHS. Department of Health and Social Care

New measures to support development of safe COVID-19 vaccines for UK

New measures to support development of safe COVID-19 vaccines for UK A raft of measures to allow the safe future mass rollout of a COVID-19 vaccine have been outlined by the government. Department of Health and Social Care

See also:

• Open consultation: Distributing vaccines and treatments for COVID-19 and flu Department of Health and Social Care
• Research and analysis: National COVID-19 surveillance reports Public Health England

Coronavirus: Winter plans revealed in leaked Sage report

Coronavirus: Winter plans revealed in leaked Sage report A leaked government report suggests a "reasonable worst case scenario" of 85,000 deaths across the UK this winter due to Covid-19.

The document also says while more restrictions could be re-introduced, schools would likely remain open.

But it says the report "is a scenario, not a prediction" and the data are subject to "significant uncertainty". BBC News

See also:

• Still ill with coronavirus six months later: 'I have no idea how to get better' BBC News
• Coronavirus cases continue to level off in England - ONS BBC News
• Covid warning as a million students set for uni return BBC News
• Coronavirus: Secondary schools to move to rota system if virus cases rise BBC News
• New coronavirus cases fell most sharply in counties where people stopped going to offices The Daily Mail
• Care homes 'bribed' to take coronavirus patients The Daily Mail
• Coronavirus UK: Individual care home death figures 'kept secret' The Daily Mail
• Winter Covid surge would kill 81,000 people in reasonable worst case scenario, leaked Sage papers reveal The Daily Telegraph
• Matt Hancock warns of extensive lockdowns if there is a second wave The Daily Telegraph
• Portugal expected to be placed back on travel ban 'red list' this week as new cases rise The Daily Telegraph
• Global coronavirus cases surpass 25 million as India sets grim record The Daily Telegraph
• Physios and paramedics could deliver flu and COVID-19 vaccines, says government GPonline
• UK records 1,715 Covid cases in largest weekend figure since mid-May The Guardian
• UK Border Force aims to check less than third of arrivals for test-and-trace forms The Guardian
• Boris Johnson urged to set out credible back-to-office plan The Guardian
• Headteachers lack confidence in NHS Test and Trace and local lockdowns iNews
• ‘You just get on with it’: The Oxford professor carrying the world’s hopes of a coronavirus vaccine The Independent
• Analysis: The government must heed the lessons from history on rushed vaccinations The Independent

Soup-and-shake diet offered on NHS to fight diabetes

Soup-and-shake diet offered on NHS to fight diabetes Thousands more people in England with type 2 diabetes will be offered the chance to try a soup-and-shake diet weight-loss plan for free on the NHS.

Studies show switching to the low-calorie liquid diet can put diabetes into remission.

Experts say they want to help people to be as fit as possible, particularly during the coronavirus pandemic. BBC News

See also:

• NHS enrolls 5,000 patients in mass trial of its soups and shakes diet to REVERSE diabetes The Daily Mail
• Thousands of diabetics to be given soup-and-shake diet plan on NHS The Guardian

Hand gel mass use could create new superbugs, scientist warns

 Hand gel mass use could create new superbugs, scientist warns A scientist has warned that overuse of alcohol-based hand sanitising gel could lead to certain bacteria adapting to survive the product and could create new superbugs that could threaten public health. The Independent

'It destroys lives': why the razor-blade pain of vaginismus is so misunderstood

'It destroys lives': why the razor-blade pain of vaginismus is so misunderstood This common condition can lead to relationship breakdown and unnecessary surgery. So why is treatment still so poor and underfunded? The Guardian

M&S supplier Greencore's Covid-19 outbreak passes 300 cases

M&S supplier Greencore's Covid-19 outbreak passes 300 cases The number of workers at a sandwich making factory who have tested positive for Covid-19 has passed 300.

A first round of tests at M&S supplier Greencore, in Northampton, found 287 people had the virus.

A further 37 workers have now provided positive results following a second round of testing. BBC Northampton

See also:

• Re-testing at Greencore complete as Public Health Northamptonshire confirms results Northampton Chronicle and Echo
• Northamptonshire's Covid-19 care home outbreaks 'no cause for concern' says public health boss Northampton Chronicle and Echo
• Barton Seagrave pub confirms two coronavirus cases but rejects 'disappointing rumours' Northampton Chronicle and Echo
• Kettering to get a Covid-19 regional testing centre Northamptonshire Telegraph

Here's who is eligible for a free NHS flu jab this year - and when it will be available

Here's who is eligible for a free NHS flu jab this year - and when it will be available The government wants to increase the number of people receiving the flu vaccination this year amid fears coronavirus cases could coincide with cold and flu season. Northampton Chronicle and Echo

Northamptonshire baby deaths: Warning over sharing beds

Northamptonshire baby deaths: Warning over sharing beds The number of baby deaths with possible links to co-sleeping with parents is rising, a safeguarding board has said.

Seven infants in Northamptonshire have died unexpectedly since March, of which one is to be investigated further.

The county's safeguarding children partnership (NSCP) said most cases in the past year were not suspicious. BBC Northampton

See also:

• Safeguarding partnership gives more details about seven Northamptonshire child deaths during lockdown Northampton Chronicle and Echo

BAME people’s experience of British lockdown significantly worse, Wellcome survey finds

BAME people’s experience of British lockdown significantly worse, survey finds People from Black and Asian minority ethnic (BAME) groups in Britain were far more likely than their White counterparts to be very concerned about the impact of coronavirus on their personal finances, physical and mental health at the height of lockdown, and less trusting of information on the disease from health sector and government sources, according to a new Wellcome survey.

See also:

• Anxiety, Confusion and Distrust How BAME people in Britain have had a worse experience of the COVID-19 pandemic Wellcome
• BAME Britons less likely to trust Covid health officials – survey The Guardian

Improving the nation’s health: striking the right balance between national and local

Improving the nation’s health: striking the right balance between national and local In mid-August, I chaired an event with five former Secretaries of State and Ministers of State from the Department of Health (and now Social Care). While outside the sky crashed with thunder and lightning, in our virtual launch the only thing that was powerful was the agreement between politicians from all the main parties about the future direction for health. The King's Fund

Adult social care and COVID-19: Assessing the impact on social care users and staff in England so far

Adult social care and COVID-19: Assessing the impact on social care users and staff in England so far Analysis on the scale of the impact of COVID-19 on social care in England during the first phase of the pandemic. The Health Foundation

See also:

• Adult social care and COVID-19: Assessing the policy response in England so far The Health Foundation

The whole society approach: making a giant leap on childhood health

The whole society approach: making a giant leap on childhood health This report looks at the government's 'obesity strategy' announcement in July 2020 and looks at how it could be used to address growing levels of 'health risk' faced by children. This report outlines a ‘whole society’ approach to expand ambition from obesity to all health issues; tackle the link between childhood health and issues like marginalisation, poverty and deprivation; and ensure the full range of levers offered by a collective approach are being used. Institute for Public Policy Research

Delivering patient eye care services during and beyond COVID-19

Delivering patient eye care services during and beyond COVID-19 The College of Optometrists and The Royal College of Ophthalmologists have developed a joint vision that sets out principles and recommendations for the development and governance of high quality eye care services that involve other key policy and commissioning organisations.

NHS Test and Trace successfully reaches almost 300,000 people

NHS Test and Trace successfully reaches almost 300,000 people The latest weekly statistics show that the service has consistently reached the vast majority of those testing positive and their contacts in 3 months of operation. Department of Health and Social Care

See also:

• Statistical data set: COVID-19: number of outbreaks in care homes - management information Public Health England
• Research and analysis: Wider impacts of COVID-19 on health monitoring tool Public Health England

Coronavirus: Daily cases highest since mid-June

Coronavirus: Daily cases highest since mid-June The number of daily UK cases of coronavirus has risen to 1,522 in 24 hours - up from 1,048 on Wednesday - the highest tally since mid-June.

This is still much lower than the 5,000 new cases a day in April, at the peak of the epidemic.

Cases have been rising across Europe and began edging up again in the UK in July, after falling in June. BBC News

See also:

• Coronavirus: 'Reassuring' study of children's 'tiny' risk BBC News
• Scientists target coronavirus immunity puzzle BBC News
• Covid-19: Five ways to avoid catching the virus indoors BBC News
• Matt Hancock grilled over supply teacher coronavirus risk The Daily Mail
• Test and Trace gets worse... AGAIN: Record-low 72.6% of infected patients were reached The Daily Mail
• Police issue just 38 fines for face covering breaches on public transport, new data shows The Daily Telegraph
• NHS test and trace hit by delays and Covid home test failures The Guardian
• On masks in schools – like everything else in this pandemic – Johnson is winging it | Trish Greenhalgh The Guardian
• Claims of 99% accuracy for UK Covid antibody test ‘cannot be trusted’ The Guardian
• Coronavirus: UK daily cases rise by 1,522 in highest increase since June The Independent
• Coronavirus: Nearly 2,000 infected people may have gone untraced for days due to ‘infrastructure problems’ in government testing system The Independent

Period poverty: Schools 'not aware' they can order free tampons

Period poverty: Schools 'not aware' they can order free tampons Charities say many schools and colleges are not aware they can order free period products through a government scheme, amid concerns Covid-19 has left more pupils struggling to access and afford tampons and pads.

Just under 40% of state schools and colleges have placed orders since it was launched in England in January. BBC News

Can Robots Save the NHS?

Can Robots Save the NHS? As the coronavirus pandemic grips the world, our NHS is facing its biggest crisis in a generation. New technology is one of the tools being used to fight this virus - as well as many other illnesses, and the use of artificial intelligence is on the rise across the health sector. ITV News

More than 15million patients are waiting for treatment on NHS's 'hidden' waiting list

More than 15million patients are waiting for treatment on NHS's 'hidden' waiting list More than 15 million patients are currently waiting for treatment on the NHS's 'hidden waiting list' - nearly four times higher than the official 3.9 million, a report claimed today.

Freedom of Information requests to NHS trusts have put the total number of people awaiting follow-up hospital appointments at 15.3 million. The Daily Mail

Less than half of adults saw NHS dentist in past two years, figures show

Less than half of adults saw NHS dentist in past two years, figures show Less than half of adults in England were seen by an NHS dentist over the last two years, according to new data.

Figures from NHS Digital have shown that within a 24-month period, up to the end of February, only 49.7% of adults received any dental treatment. Sky News

M&S supplier Greencore back in operation after Covid closure

M&S supplier Greencore back in operation after Covid closure Production is back under way at a sandwich-making factory days after it was closed because almost 300 workers tested positive for Covid-19.

M&S supplier Greencore in Northampton ceased production on Friday, with workers told to self-isolate.

The Bakers' Union said staff have been asked to return to work before periods of self-isolation have finished. BBC Northampton

See also:

• Union criticises Northampton sandwich factory for calling workers back in less than a week after ordering employees into isolation Northampton Chronicle and Echo
• Coronavirus risk at Wellingborough horse fair is low, say public health officials Northampton Chronicle and Echo
• £8.5m covid shortfall could impact new unitaries start up balances Northampton Chronicle and Echo
• Bank Holiday horse fair: The statement in full from Police, Wellingborough council and Public Health Northamptonshire Northamptonshire Telegraph
• New Covid-19 testing unit opens in Wellingborough town centre Northamptonshire Telegraph

PPE: care workers delivering homecare during the Covid-19 response

PPE: care workers delivering homecare during the Covid-19 response This national intelligence report provides insight into a safety risk related to PPE requirements for care workers delivering homecare during the Covid-19 response. Healthcare Safety Investigation Branch

See also:

• Unclear UK advice on PPE cited in home care Covid-19 death inquiry The Guardian
• Coronavirus: ‘Confusing’ advice from Public Health England put patients at risk, watchdog says The Independent

How has Covid-19 and associated lockdown measures affected loneliness in the UK?

How has Covid-19 and associated lockdown measures affected loneliness in the UK? This briefing highlights findings from the Covid Social Study, as part of ongoing data analysis work with University College London. This study has surveyed over 70,000 people since March 2020, asking different questions about their experiences and wellbeing over the past few months, including asking people about loneliness. What Works Centre for Wellbeing

Women in healthcare: moving from the front lines to the top rung

Women in healthcare: moving from the front lines to the top rung This report shows women in healthcare have made progress and continue to report high job satisfaction. However, women also encounter persistent obstacles to advancement, particularly for senior positions, where they remain underrepresented. McKinsey & Company

Suicide Prevention in Gypsy and Traveller communities in England

Suicide Prevention in Gypsy and Traveller communities in England The suicide rate for members of the Traveller community is six times higher than the general population, yet Gypsy and Traveller communities are not recognised as a high-risk group, nor mentioned once in the Government’s National Suicide Prevention Plan. This paper assesses 79 local suicide prevention plans which represent 113 local areas to see whether the high suicide rate in Gypsy and Traveller communities has been identified and mitigated against on a local level. It finds that only five out of 79 local suicide prevention plans in England mention Gypsy and Traveller communities. Friends, Families and Travellers

New payment for people self-isolating in highest risk areas

New payment for people self-isolating in highest risk areas People on low incomes who need to self-isolate and are unable to work from home in areas with high incidence of COVID-19 will benefit from a new payment scheme. Department of Health and Social Care

UK flu jab rates prompt complacency warning

UK flu jab rates prompt complacency warning Complacency over the flu jab risks overwhelming the NHS, experts warn, as data reveals the scale of the challenge in expanding the vaccination programme.

Last month, the government announced plans to double the amount of people who receive the influenza jab.

But BBC analysis has found the take-up rate among those people in vulnerable groups eligible for a free jab has declined in recent years. BBC News

See also:

• Flu: Why we still need to worry about it this winter BBC News

The deterioration of Britain's mental health can no longer be ignored

The deterioration of Britain's mental health can no longer be ignored | Frances Ryan It feels as if the nation’s mental wellbeing has been strangely ignored throughout the pandemic. The public has experienced what is by any definition a traumatic event this year with little time to grieve or process it, often while enduring financial insecurity and hardship. A survey by the Office for National Statistics shows the number of adults in Britain with depression has doubled during the pandemic. Almost one in five people experienced depression in June, with young adults, women, key workers and disabled people among those most likely to be affected, as well as those unable to meet unexpected costs. The Guardian

Britain's two-metre social distancing rule 'is based on outdated science'

Britain's two-metre social distancing rule 'is based on outdated science' Britain's two metre social distancing rule is based on outdated science and is not far enough in crowded places like bars, experts say.

Dr Nicholas Jones and colleagues at the University of Oxford said the rule was produced from studies dating back up to 100 years ago and is too simplistic.

Instead, there should be a grading system depending on how 'risky' a place is, they said. The Daily Mail

See also:

• Two metres or one: what is the evidence for physical distancing in covid-19? (open access) The BMJ
• Coronavirus: Obesity 'increases risks from Covid-19' BBC News
• First Scotland deaths after positive test for six weeks BBC News
• Coronavirus: Payment for people on low incomes who must self-isolate BBC News
• UK announces Covid-19 deaths for Wednesday The Daily Mail
• BAME Britons less likely to trust Covid health officials – survey The Guardian 
• Saving lives or UK economy from Covid a 'false choice', MPs warn The Guardian

Staff sickness rate at Northamptonshire Healthcare fell during lockdown

Staff sickness rate at Northamptonshire Healthcare fell during lockdown The sickness absence rate among staff at Northamptonshire Healthcare fell at the start of lockdown, figures show, despite illness rising elsewhere in the NHS. Northampton Chronicle and Echo

Greencore: Northampton factory at centre of Covid-19 outbreak remains open

Greencore: Northampton factory at centre of Covid-19 outbreak remains open A sandwich-making factory at the centre of a coronavirus outbreak has remained partially open despite almost 300 staff testing positive for the virus.

Workers at M&S supplier Greencore in Northampton, say departments including dispatch are still working despite a temporary government closure.

The company said a "small number" of workers were working "in order to monitor and maintain the site". BBC Northampton

See also:

• Greencore completes deep clean as 'small number' of staff return to Northampton site, company confirms Northampton Chronicle and Echo

Time to deliver real change for people with a learning disability and autistic people

Time to deliver real change for people with a learning disability and autistic people A new report by NHS Providers calls for immediate action to tackle stigma and the historic underfunding of services for people with a learning disability and autistic people.

The report says the longstanding inequity in the development, commissioning and delivery of these services has harmed the health and wellbeing of these vulnerable groups of individuals, resulting in reduced life expectancy and – in extreme cases – increased risk of abuse.

However the report also highlights the fact that most learning disability and autism services are providing people with good care according to Care Quality Commission, and there are some services rated as outstanding. NHS Providers

See also:

• Getting it right for everyone: meeting the needs of people with a learning disability and autistic people in NHS services NHS Providers
• Making 2020s the decade we deliver real change for people with a learning disability and autism NHS Providers
• Sending learning disabled patients to private hospitals increases risk of abuse, NHS warned The Independent

Face coverings in education

 Face coverings in education Guidance on the use of face coverings for schools and other education institutions that teach people in Years 7 and above in England. Department for Education

Coronavirus: Nottinghamshire woman, 75, 'first positive test within UK'

Coronavirus: Nottinghamshire woman, 75, 'first positive test within UK' The earliest known person to contract coronavirus within the UK has been identified, scientists believe.

Analysis of samples by the University of Nottingham showed a 75-year-old woman, from Nottinghamshire, tested positive on 21 February.

She is also understood to be first in the UK to die after contracting Covid-19. BBC News

See also:

• Coronavirus: Face coverings U-turn for England’s secondary schools BBC News
• Pressure grows for masks in England's schools BBC News
• Ministers have defied SAGE advice to screen all hospital patients for Covid-19 The Daily Mail
• Drug giant AstraZeneca starts trial of Covid-19 antibody injections The Daily Mail
• From face masks to contact tracing: the full list of Government coronavirus U-turns The Daily Telegraph
• Boris Johnson drops advice against face mask use in English schools The Guardian
• Has England learned any lessons from the first wave of coronavirus? The Guardian 
• Coronavirus: Two more cases of reinfection reported in Europe The Independent

Oral sex linked to vaginal condition bacterial vaginosis

Oral sex linked to vaginal condition bacterial vaginosis Oral sex may create an environment for a common vaginal condition called bacterial vaginosis or BV, according to research in the journal PLoS Biology.

BV is not a sexually transmitted infection. It is an imbalance of the usual bacteria found in the vagina. BBC News

See also:

• Glycan cross-feeding supports mutualism between Fusobacterium and the vaginal microbiota (open access) PLOS Biology

Spreadsheet error led to Edinburgh hospital opening delay

Spreadsheet error led to Edinburgh hospital opening delay A mistake in a spreadsheet set in motion a series of events that delayed the opening of a £150m hospital, a new report has revealed.

Last-minute issues with ventilation prevented the opening of Edinburgh's new children's hospital last July. BBC News

Parliament officials reject petition over lack of non-Covid NHS care

Parliament officials reject petition over lack of non-Covid NHS care Committee accused of censorship after petition deemed ‘not a matter for ministers’.

Parliamentary authorities have been accused of censorship after refusing to accept a charity’s petition highlighting non-Covid patients not receiving NHS care during the pandemic. The Guardian

NHS prescription 'season ticket' would have saved a million people money, investigation reveals

NHS prescription 'season ticket' would have saved a million people money, investigation reveals Over a million people could have saved on NHS prescriptions with a “season ticket” last year, an investigation has revealed.

Patients who paid for at least 12 prescriptions last year could have saved £40 on average, the consumer website MoneySavingExpert.com found. iNews

Doctors call on BMA to survey members on industrial action over 'real-terms pay cuts'

Doctors call on BMA to survey members on industrial action over 'real-terms pay cuts' Doctors will call on the BMA to ask members if they would support a ballot on industrial action to tackle the 'real-terms pay erosion' the profession has experienced over the past decade at a meeting next month. GPonline

See also:

• Pay award for hospital medical and dental staff, doctors and dentists in public health, the community health service and salaried primary dental care NHS Employers

Covid-19 tests in Northamptonshire hit by capacity issues in labs

Covid-19 tests in Northamptonshire hit by capacity issues in labs Covid-19 test centres in Northamptonshire could be forced to turn people away today due to issues with laboratory capacity.

Five sites are set up around the county in Northampton, Corby, Kettering, Thrapston and Grange Park today (Monday) as health officials attempt to control a rise in the rate of infections. Northamptonshire Telegraph

See also:

• Re-testing of Greencore employees who tested negative still ongoing, says Public Health Northants Northampton Chronicle and Echo
• What can police do to enforce Covid-19 restrictions now Northampton is on Government watchlist? Northampton Chronicle and Echo
• How are Northampton schools preparing for the return of thousands of children after coronavirus lockdown? Northampton Chronicle and Echo

Seven Northamptonshire children died during lockdown

Seven Northamptonshire children died during lockdown Seven Northamptonshire children have died during lockdown and abuse or neglect are suspected in all cases.

Six of those who died were babies and toddlers according to brief details in a safeguarding report written by Northamptonshire clinical commissioning group’s chief nurse Angela Dempsey. Northamptonshire Telegraph

Can the real ‘anchor institutions’ stand up?

Can the real ‘anchor institutions’ stand up? In 2004, Kevin Bond became the general manager for mental health services in Grimsby and North East Lincolnshire: a typical set of ‘Cinderella’ services, understaffed, underfunded, and discretely hidden in a large hospital trust. Kevin was determined to right institutional injustices for people with mental health problems. The King's Fund

Building a Better Future for Nursing: RCN members have their say

Building a Better Future for Nursing: RCN members have their say This report details the findings of the Building a Better Future survey which was open to all RCN members from May to June 2020. It explores data from the survey, including initial comparisons between different settings and experiences during the pandemic and includes details on the RCN’s plans for the next steps. Royal College of Nursing

COVID-19 and the female health and care workforce

COVID-19 and the female health and care workforce The COVID-19 pandemic has placed unprecedented pressure on health and care staff. In June the Health & Care Women Leaders Network (HCWLN) commissioned a survey to better understand the impact the pandemic has had on women working across health and care services.

Over 1,300 women responsed, this report and accompanying slide deck explain the findings. The report describes the struggles, pains and fears women working in health and care services have faced during the pandemic. The physical and emotional impact due to caring responsibilities both in and outside of work are significant. It also draws out some of the positive experiences, such as opportunities for learning and the strength of support many have received from their managers. NHS Confederation

See also:

• Survey of female NHS staff raises concerns over burnout in pandemic The Guardian

The experience of care home staff during Covid-19

The experience of care home staff during Covid-19 In May and June of 2020, a survey was carried out to understand more about the impact of Covid-19 on the care home nurse workforce within the UK. This survey was launched in the early weeks of the pandemic in response to grave concerns about the safety of the workforce and the gaps in provision that it was facing. The survey responses in the report confirm that for the majority of respondents, the pandemic has been a very challenging experience. They indicated that their work and wellbeing has been worse or much worse than at normal times, during the survey period. Queen's Nursing Institute

Research and analysis: National COVID-19 surveillance reports

Research and analysis: National COVID-19 surveillance reports National COVID-19 surveillance reports, including weekly summary of findings monitored through various COVID-19 surveillance systems. Public Health England

One in eight hospital virus cases 'caught on-site'

One in eight hospital virus cases 'caught on-site' Thousands of patients are likely to have been infected with coronavirus in UK hospitals, a study suggests.

The King's College London study of 10 UK hospital sites plus one in Italy found at least one in eight patients who had received hospital treatment for coronavirus had caught it on-site.

Researchers said that was a relatively low rate and showed there was effective infection control in place. BBC News

See also:

• Nosocomial COVID-19 infection: examining the risk of mortality. The COPE-Nosocomial Study (COVID in Older PEople) (open access) The Journal of Hospital Infection
• Hong Kong reports 'first case' of virus reinfection BBC News
• Coronavirus: Dr Anthony Fauci warns against rushing out vaccine BBC News
• Heads want to know if masks allowed in school BBC News
• Matt Hancock launches 'Operation Moon Shot' plan to test four MILLION people every day within months The Daily Mail
• NHS Test and Trace is directing people to Covid-19 test centres up to 175 miles away The Daily Mail
• Health chiefs defied Sage advice on hospital tests The Daily Telegraph
• Coronavirus home test kits run out in England and Scotland The Guardian
• Coronavirus: Thousands of health and care staff infected at work, new data shows The Independent
• Coronavirus: Scotland considers mandatory face masks in high schools as 22 teachers and pupils test positive in outbreak The Independent
• Coronavirus: Treatment hailed by Trump as 'breakthrough' is 'not conclusive', NHS says Sky News

From cancer and Covid to dementia, BAME patients are shamefully more at risk

From cancer and Covid to dementia, BAME patients are shamefully more at risk Moise Roche says that if ever he thought he was losing his memory and had dementia, there’s ‘no way’ he’d see a doctor about it.

A researcher in mental health based at University College London, he has published a number of papers in prestigious medical journals focusing on dementia in Black, African and Caribbean (BAC) populations.

While a little over 50 per cent of white people in the UK with dementia are diagnosed and treated, that number is vastly lower among those from ethnic minority groups. The Daily Mail