The UK has introduced RSV vaccination for people aged 75 and above, as well as pregnant women at 28 weeks of pregnancy and beyond. This vaccine is designed to protect against Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), which can cause serious respiratory illness.

Key Points:

Older Adults (75-79): RSV can lead to severe respiratory issues in older adults, including pneumonia and exacerbations of chronic conditions like COPD. The vaccine helps reduce the risk of these complications, lowering the chances of hospitalisation and improving quality of life.
Pregnant Women (28 weeks and above): Vaccinating pregnant women not only protects the mother but also provides passive immunity to the baby, protecting newborns during their first vulnerable months. This is crucial in preventing RSV-related complications in infants, such as bronchiolitis and pneumonia.

This vaccination program is a significant step in safeguarding the health of vulnerable populations, helping to prevent severe RSV infections and their associated risks.

Blackwater Medical Centre are administering the RSV vaccine from 3rd September 2024.
Those patients who are eligible should ideally not be administered with the covid and flu vaccine at the same time. This will be a separate clinic on Saturday 12th October.

Blackwater Medical Centre does not have a catchment area policy and accepts patients from all over Essex, this provides a greater level of flexibility and accessibility for patients in the region. Here's what this means for you as a potential patient:

Open Registration at Blackwater Medical Centre

No Geographic Limitations: Since the centre does not enforce a catchment area policy, you can register as a patient regardless of where you live within Essex. This is beneficial for people who prefer this particular medical centre due to its services, reputation, or convenience, even if they are not located nearby.

Patient Choice: You have the freedom to choose Blackwater Medical Centre based on your personal preferences, without being restricted by your residential location. This could be especially advantageous if you live in a rural part of Essex or if other nearby practices are full or have less desirable services.

Access to Services: As a patient from anywhere in Essex, you can access the full range of services provided by Blackwater Medical Centre,. This could include general practice services, specialised care, and health check-ups.

Registration Process: Despite the lack of a catchment area, the registration process would typically still require you to fill out a simple form at our website www.blackwatermedicalcentre.co.uk

You will need to provide identification and proof of address, should you wish to access our online services. However, your location within Essex will not be a barrier to registering.

Summary

The fact that Blackwater Medical Centre accepts patients from all over Essex without a catchment area restriction means you can choose to register with them regardless of where you live in the county. This policy makes it easier for you to access the healthcare services you prefer, providing greater flexibility and patient choice.

Mpox (formerly known as monkeypox) is a viral disease caused by the mpox virus, which is related to the smallpox virus but is generally less severe. Mpox was first discovered in laboratory monkeys in 1958, which is how it got its name, although it is primarily spread by rodents in the wild.
Symptoms of Mpox
Fever
Headache
Muscle aches
Backache
Swollen lymph nodes
Chills
Exhaustion

Rash: This typically begins within a few days after the fever, starting on the face and then spreading to other parts of the body. The rash goes through several stages, from macules (flat, discoloured spots) to papules (raised bumps), vesicles (small fluid-filled blisters), and pustules (larger pus-filled blisters), before finally forming scabs that eventually fall off.

Transmission

Animal to Human: Through bites, scratches, or direct contact with the blood, body fluids, or rash of an infected animal, often rodents or primates.
Human to Human: Through close contact with respiratory secretions, skin lesions of an infected person, or recently contaminated objects like bedding. Transmission can also occur through prolonged face-to-face contact or intimate physical contact.

How Widespread Is Mpox Now?

Global Spread: Mpox was historically found in Central and West Africa, where it was considered endemic. However, in 2022, there was an unprecedented global outbreak that spread to many countries outside of Africa, including the Americas, Europe, Asia, and other regions.
2022-2023 Outbreak: The outbreak saw thousands of cases in countries where the virus was not typically found, leading to widespread concern and public health responses.

Current Situation: As of 2024, the global situation has improved significantly due to vaccination efforts, increased awareness, and public health measures. However, mpox has not been eradicated and still poses a risk, particularly in areas where vaccination coverage is low or where the virus is endemic.

Prevention and Control

Vaccination: Smallpox vaccines, particularly the newer ones developed for both smallpox and mpox, can provide protection. Vaccination campaigns have been implemented in response to outbreaks, especially targeting high-risk groups.

Public Health Measures: Quarantine of infected individuals, contact tracing, and public education on reducing exposure to animals and practicing good hygiene have been key in controlling the spread.

Summary

Mpox is a viral disease related to smallpox, with symptoms including fever, rash, and swollen lymph nodes. While historically limited to Central and West Africa, a global outbreak in 2022-2023 led to cases worldwide. Although the situation has since improved, mpox remains a concern, particularly in regions where it is endemic or where vaccination coverage is insufficient. Continued vigilance, vaccination, and public health efforts are crucial to controlling its spread.