What is hantavirus? How is it transmitted and what are the symptoms?

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is monitoring and providing public health advice regarding an outbreak of hantavirus linked to a Dutch cruise ship. As of Tuesday 5 May, 6 individuals have become unwell, 2 of whom have been confirmed as having hantavirus.  Read the new post: https://ukhsa.blog.gov.uk/2026/05/05/what-is-hantavirus-how-is-it-transmitted-and-what-are-the-symptoms/

Essex Caring Communities Delivery Plan Launch

This Delivery Plan for Essex’s communities and civil society is timely as our NHS and local authorities are changing and developing. The actions will strengthen the county’s wellbeing by empowering carers, neighbours, voluntary groups and social enterprises. Responsibility for delivery of clear actions and aims is clearly apportioned so this does not ‘get shelved’. We … Continue reading Essex Caring Communities Delivery Plan Launch

Shortage of prescription medicines

There is a serious shortage of some prescription medicines in SWF and elsewhere at present. Common medications like ramipril, co-codamol, and dispersible aspirin are affected. Please see the attached generic NHS leaflet. Please do not blame pharmacy staff or GP surgery staff; it isn’t their fault.Learn why medicines may be unavailable, what to do, and where to … Continue reading Shortage of prescription medicines

An update from SWF Health & Social Care Group

Some items have been Updated and along with a few new items come first. What did you think about the English Resident Doctors strike which took place straight after the long Easter weekend? Did they have your support? Measles outbreak of highly contagious disease, in north London. Most cases are in schools and nurseries; some … Continue reading An update from SWF Health & Social Care Group

An update from SWF Health & Social Care Group

Because of the recent industrial action there has been an intentional limit as far as possible of published items within the NHS which is reflected in this bulletin. Some items have been Updated along with the few new items come first Please tell us what you thought about the English Resident Doctors strike which took … Continue reading An update from SWF Health & Social Care Group

Covid-19 vaccines for eligible groups begin and preparing for May bank holiday

Eligible residents who are most at risk of serious illness are being encouraged to come forward for their Covid-19 spring booster. The NHS Covid-19 spring booster campaign began on 13 April to offer eligible people the opportunity to top up their protection ahead of the summer months. Who can get the spring booster Adults aged … Continue reading Covid-19 vaccines for eligible groups begin and preparing for May bank holiday