People with learning disabilities had ‘six times higher’ death rate from COVID-19

England death rate up to 6 times higher from coronavirus during the first wave of the pandemic than the general population, Public Health England study finds.

The report, Deaths of people identified as having learning disabilities with COVID-19 in England in the Spring of 2020 examined data from The English Learning Disabilities Mortality Review (LeDeR) and NHS England’s COVID-19 Patient Notification System (CPNS) which records deaths in hospital settings.

It found 451 per 100,000 people registered as having a learning disability died with COVID-19 between 21 March and 5 June, a death rate 4.1 times higher than the general population after adjusting for other factors such as age and sex.

But as not all deaths in people with learning difficulties are registered on these databases, researchers estimated the real rate may have been as high as 692 per 100,000, 6.3 times higher.

Deaths were also spread much more widely across the age spectrum among people with learning disabilities, with far greater mortality rates in younger adults, compared to the general population. The death rate for people aged 18 to 34 with learning disabilities was 30 times higher than the rate in the same age group without disabilities, researchers found.

Among people with learning disabilities, the rate of COVID-19 deaths for adults in residential care was higher than the rates of COVID-19 deaths of adults with learning disabilities generally. This difference is likely in part to reflect the greater age and disability in people in residential care.

People with learning disabilities are more likely to have other physical health problems such as obesity and diabetes, and certain kinds of learning disability, such as Down’s syndrome, can make people more vulnerable to respiratory infections, which can increase their risk of dying from COVID-19.

Professor John Newton, Director of Health Improvement at Public Health England, said: It is deeply troubling that one of the most vulnerable groups in our society suffered so much during the first wave of the pandemic. We must do everything possible to prevent this happening again.

“There are now regular tests in care homes to make sure cases of coronavirus can be quickly identified and isolated, even if people do not recognise the symptoms themselves.

“But with cases developing across the country, it is essential to practice rigorous infection control if you are in contact with someone with a learning disability, whether or not they live in a care home.

“Wash your hands, wear a mask and keep a safe distance. The fewer people you meet, the more you’ll stop the spread.”

A learning disability is a significantly reduced ability to understand new or complex information and learn new skills and a reduced ability to cope independently which started before adulthood, with a lasting effect on development.

That means that people with learning disabilities often may find it harder to manage basic everyday skills, and rely upon support for many tasks, including communicating, managing money or looking after themselves.

People with learning disabilities are likely to have had difficulty recognising symptoms of COVID-19, or following government advice about getting tested, self-isolation, social distancing and infection prevention and control, the report says. It may also be more difficult for people caring for them to recognise the onset of symptoms if these cannot be communicated.

Helen Whately, Minister of State for Social Care, said: “Every death from COVID-19 has been a tragedy, and my deepest sympathies go out to everyone who has lost loved ones during the pandemic. I know how difficult this pandemic has been for people with a learning disability and those who care for them.

“A third of those with learning disabilities who sadly died were living in residential care. There is now regular testing of staff and residents in care homes, and testing has also been rolled out to supported living settings in high risk areas.

“We’re also offering free PPE, and the Joint committee on vaccines and immunisation has proposed those living and working in care homes should be top of the list for vaccination.

“This report adds to our knowledge of COVID-19 and how those with learning disabilities are affected by this cruel disease. I am asking SAGE to review the findings and give advice on what more we can do to keep people safe.”

More than half of home care was reduced or stopped completely as a result of pandemic, survey reveals

The impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on home care has been revealed following an online survey by the Scottish Parliament’s Health and Sport Committee.

Published yesterday, the survey found that 54% of recipients of home care saw their care either reduced or stopped completely. In one instance, a respondent reported having their care stopped for more than six months. Reduction in care was a recurring theme from respondents with families feeling that they were “left to get on with it”.

The survey, which ran during August and September, sought to hear the experiences of both carers and care recipients during the pandemic. Key concerns raised include:

In the event of a second wave, the most important issue for those surveyed was safety. They told us it was vital to have access to appropriate PPE as well as frequent testing, and that carers should receive adequate training in both infection control and social distancing.
Additional pressures and a loss of routine led to increased anxiety for unpaid carers, who stressed the need for respite. Respondents felt “mentally exhausted” and “frightened to let staff back into their homes”.
It was agreed that there needs to be greater recognition of unpaid carers who were often “left to pick up the slack”. There were calls for more support and financial help as well as a ‘professionalisation’ of the system, with a move towards a professional career model.
A fear of services shutting down again left respondents feeling determined to “not be forgotten about” or “left to manage entirely on [their] own”. They called for the continuity of care services and care packages to remain in place in the event of future outbreaks.

Speaking as the findings of the survey were published, Committee Convener Lewis Macdonald MSP said: “The first wave of Covid-19 had a devastating impact on the social care sector in Scotland.

“Now that we’re in the midst of a second wave, and continuing national restrictions, it is vital that we hear the voices of home care workers and those receiving care at home across the country. These findings are deeply concerning suggesting over 50% of those receiving care at home saw their care reduced or stopped completely during the pandemic.

“Other concerns raised around mental health, safety, and the prospect of care shutting down again, make it clear that things must improve.

“The Committee recognises the hard work of carers, paid and unpaid, who have gone above and beyond during this unprecedented challenge and we also want to thank all those who took part in the survey for sharing their experiences in what are still very difficult times.”

Supporting each other during winter

Refreshed ‘Ready Scotland’ website to help communities work together

Communities are being encouraged to continue to support each other as the country moves into winter.

The Scottish Government’s recently refreshed Ready Scotland website (ready.scot) provides a range of information for anyone looking for support during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, as well as advice on preparing for winter weather.

It also provides guidance for those who wish to help out those around them, whether on an individual basis or through volunteering with local community groups or charities.

https://twitter.com/i/status/1326608249685151745

Deputy First Minister John Swinney said: “In any year, winter weather can be a challenge for many of us, and this year it will come while we are already managing the effects that COVID-19 is having on so many aspects of our lives.

“As we have seen in previous winters, and as we saw so clearly during our lockdown in the spring and in the months since, the strength and kindness of our communities and our desire to look out for our neighbours is one of our greatest resources.

“These support networks are no less important now than they were in the spring, especially to older, disabled and at risk people, and those who are on their own or feeling lonely. While we can’t visit each other as we might have done in previous years, a phone call or a text can go a long way, and there are a wide range of services standing ready to provide support.

“I would encourage people to continue to take time to check in with those around you and offer any help that you are able.”

Guidance on giving and finding help during the coronavirus pandemic, preparing for winter weather, and forming community groups is available on the Ready Scotland website.

For those without digital access, coronavirus support can be sought from the National Assistance Helpline by telephoning 0800 111 4000.

Clearyourhead.scot has a range of advice and resources, also offering practical assistance for anyone feeling low or needing to speak to someone for emotional support.

Ever wondered what happens to your body when you stop drinking?

Ruari Fairbairns, CEO and Founder of One Year No Beer, explains what happens to your body after you stop drinking, and draws a timeline of all the amazing benefits you can expect to enjoy from quitting alcohol

Ruari Fairbairns said: “Quitting alcohol comes with so many amazing benefits! You will start to notice improvements in your overall health from week one. As you continue on your path of being alcohol-free, you will notice your body becoming a well optimised machine.“

The inescapable fact is boozing causes a lot of health issues plus foul moods, crazy sugar cravings, poor sleep, unpleasant toilet habits and poor concentration. Booze also massively contributes to depression and anxiety.

Whilst we seek its numbing qualities to ease mood, booze is playing a cruel game. It is medically classed as a depressant, and over time it depresses your natural body chemistry and leads to that gnawing anxiety and heaviness.

Ruari says, “One of the most common questions we get asked is ‘what happens when you stop drinking?” There are so many benefits of not drinking alcohol, including sleeping more deeply and, as a result of this, increased physical and mental energy; restored hydration (leading to dewier and more youthful skin); weight loss and improved fitness; improved moods and a feeling of contentedness.”

Ruari explains in more detail with the following timeline …

What happens when you quit drinking:

Alcohol timeline

Short term benefits

The good news is our bodies LOVE being booze-free and respond really quickly. The lift in mood and depression is one to the key reasons people continue to stay booze free with the help of OYNB – because the natural high feels so good!

What happens to your body in the first few days?

1 – 12 HOURS

An hour after your last drink, your liver starts working overtime, clearing the alcohol from your bloodstream to prevent alcohol poisoning. Yep! Booze is poison and the liver has to alter its chemical structure so it doesn’t kill us – changing alcohol to acetaldehyde and then acetate.

Acetaldehyde, a highly toxic substance and a known carcinogen, so although acetaldehyde exists in the body only for a brief time before it is further broken down into acetate, it has the potential to cause significant damage. You may experience nausea and tremor as your body deals with all this. At the time your pancreas also starts producing extra insulin, which causes intense carb cravings.

12 – 24 HOURS

Your blood sugar has potentially normalised, if you haven’t created a glycemic roller-coaster by sugar and carb binging. To rebalance, eat healthy foods and drink lots of water.

48 -72 HOURS

For most, the worst is over by now. Although you may still feel groggy and tired depending on how much booze your body had to process. If, however, you had a bigger booze problem than you realised, then sweating, increased pulse, tremor, anxiety and agitation may continue or kick in at this time. A serious alcohol problem may need medical support from your GP to prevent fits or DTs.

72 HOURS ONWARDS

Any hangover side effects are now officially out of your system, you finally feel back to yourself physically and mentally. And to think this is only 72 hours into your quest to stop drinking alcohol for a month.

When you stop drinking alcohol for a week:

· You start sleeping more deeply and your physical and mental energy to increase as a result.

· Your skin begins to look dewier and more youthful as hydration restores.

· Skin conditions such as dandruff, eczema, and rosacea may also improve.

Sleep & hydration

After only one week of not drinking you will be making better decisions as well as benefiting from improved learning and problem solving. You will also find yourself feeling more creative. Even if you don’t have a huge appetite you will find your eating pattern improving day by day.

One of the most obvious benefits of not drinking alcohol for a week is that your body will be hydrated. This means you will have more energy, increased physical performance and you will be experiencing less headaches.

Calories & money saved

As well as the mental and physical benefits of not drinking alcohol, your wallet will also be feeling fuller.

· Wine drinkers can expect to save around £22.

· Beer drinkers would save £18 for giving up alcohol for a week.

The benefits of not drinking alcohol for 2 weeks include:

· No more acid reflux

· Stomach lining returns to normal

· Continued sleep and hydration improvements

· Noticeable weight loss

Now that you have quit drinking for two weeks, your body will be improving on the inside and you will be starting to look different on the outside too. You will have saved 2160 calories (six pints or six 175ml glasses of wine on average) by giving up alcohol for two weeks.

Drinking 12 pints of beer in two weeks is the equivalent to eating ten large slices of cake, 2160 calories.

Total money saved now from giving up alcohol for two weeks, £45 for wine and £35 for beer.

The benefits of not drinking alcohol for 3 weeks:

· Reduced risk of stroke and heart problems

· Better kidney health

· Improved vision

Congrats! 3 weeks of giving up alcohol is no mean feat! It is well known that drinking too much alcohol can lead to increased blood pressure. Now that you have stopped drinking for three weeks your blood pressure will start to reduce. This is one of the most important benefits of not drinking alcohol.

Calories & money Saved

Now you will have saved yourself a very healthy:

· £54 if you average 6 beers a week

· £67 if you consume 6 glasses of wine a week over the last three weeks.

You could put that saved cash to good use and start a gym membership to help burn off all the extra energy you have since you have had no alcohol for three weeks.

What happens when you stop drinking for 4 weeks?

· Reduce liver fat by up to 15%

· Better looking skin

· More likely to have reduced drinking for 6 months after the end of your challenge

Another health benefit from giving up alcohol for a month is improved liver function. After four weeks of no drinking your liver will start to shed excess fat. With the liver playing a part in over 500 vital processes, you also give your body a better chance of removing contaminants, converting food nutrients, storing minerals and vitamins.

Giving up alcohol for a month will have a positive impact on your skin due to your increased hydration levels. You could even reward yourself with an alcohol-free beer one night, which are also lower in calories and there are now so many to choose from.

Calories & money saved

You will also have reduced your calorie intake by 3840 for the month, if you used to drink six glasses of 175ml wine a week, or 4320 calories over the month if you used to drink six pints of lager a week.

For your bank balance that equates to saving:

· Over £70 if you drink beer

· And just under £90 by giving up wine for a month.

What happens when you give up alcohol for a month?

Your liver fat reduces by up to 20%, allowing it to flush toxins out of the body more efficiently.

Your cholesterol (a risk factor in heart disease) drops up to 5% and your glucose stabilises (decreasing your risk of developing type 2 diabetes). All the inward changes begin to show through in a healthy glow of the skin and eyes.

Benefits of not drinking alcohol for 3 months or more

There is a lot to expect when you stop drinking for 3 months. Alcohol is related to 7 different cancer types.

By giving up alcohol for 3 months you reduce your chances of getting cancer.

After a year of not drinking, you and your life will be transformed.

At OYNB we’ve been on this journey with 100s who’ve gone long-term booze-free and we see it every time:

* Weight loss and improved fitness
* Improved moods and a feeling of contentedness
* Better relationships
* Increased productivity and focus at work
* More pound in the pocket (if you spent an average of £75 a week on drinking at home and going-out, that’s a saving of £3900 over a year)
* Ability to absorb vitamins and minerals increases
* Reduced risk of cancer and decreased stress levels
* Quicker immune response

Better outcomes for stroke patients in Scotland

The first step towards a national thrombectomy service for stroke patients is underway with the launch of a pilot in the North of Scotland.

Thrombectomy is a highly skilled procedure in which blood clots are removed mechanically rather than broken down by medicines (thrombolysis). It is used to treat those with severe stroke and reduce their risk of long-term disability.

NHS Tayside developed a training programme in Mechanical Thrombectomy (MT), supported by the Scottish Government. Key staff were trained by Professor Iris Grunwald, one of the UK’s leading stroke thrombectomy interventional neuroradiologists, using advanced simulation techniques.

Initially the thrombectomy procedures in Dundee will be performed on patients in Tayside before the service is extended to patients across the North.

A fully operational 24/7 service is anticipated in Tayside by 2023, and will form part of a national network in line with the Scottish Government’s Programme for Government commitment.

In the West of Scotland, the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital campus will provide a ‘hub’ thrombectomy service for the West of Scotland by 2023, while the NHS Lothian service will also be operating from the Little France site within the same timeframe.

Health Secretary Jeane Freeman said: “Over the past 10 years, the number of people dying from stroke in Scotland has decreased by more than 35%. While this is significant progress, we can still achieve even better outcomes.

“A quality and clinically safe thrombectomy service is part of our wider commitment in this year’s Programme for Government to ensure those who experience severe stroke receive the best possible treatment and care.

“It is testament to our healthcare professions that we are now seeing this first step towards a national roll-out, despite the additional pressures placed on them during the pandemic and I want to thank them for their hard work.

“Funding will continue to be made available to other boards to develop the programme and the framework.”

Honorary consultant interventional radiologist in NHS Tayside Professor Graeme Houston said: “We are delighted to be able to launch this service to provide mechanical thrombectomy for patients in the North of Scotland.

“Thrombectomy delivers a significant benefit for some patients who have sudden onset of stroke with significantly improved outcomes and a reduced level of disability.”

Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland Chief Executive Jane-Claire Judson said: “It’s good that we are seeing tangible progress towards thrombectomies being available to stroke patients in Scotland.

“People in Scotland must be given the best possible chance of living without disability or dependency after a stroke. We know that at least 600 people a year in Scotland would benefit from a thrombectomy. Developing the skills to deliver this procedure is a key part of establishing the service in Scotland.

“This progress is being driven by inspirational stroke survivors campaigning for change. Together, we will keep campaigning to make sure that this game-changing stroke treatment is available as soon as possible.”

The Stroke Association in Scotland welcomes the announcement that mechanical thrombectomy is to be made available to some Scots for the first time since 2018.

This is a long overdue but a significant first step towards delivery of a national thrombectomy service for the whole of Scotland which should be in place by 2023.

Thrombectomy is vital. Around 700 stroke patients are eligible for the procedure in Scotland each year. Patients who have a stroke caused by a large blood clot in the brain would potentially benefit from a thrombectomy procedure.

It involves inserting a catheter into an artery, usually within six hours of someone having their stroke, to remove the blood clot. This allows blood flow to resume and oxygen to reach brain tissue.

The treatment can dramatically reduce the devastating consequences of stroke such as losing the ability to walk and talk. Around one in three people who receive a thrombectomy after their stroke will be less disabled as a result, and around one in five of those who receive it will be able to function completely independently afterwards.

Andrea Cail, Director Scotland for the Stroke Association said: “Thrombectomy is a game-changing treatment, and it is good to finally have it available in Scotland again. But it is only the first step. Stroke is now a clinical priority in Scotland and restarting a thrombectomy service for those need it will be the difference between living or dying; living permanently disabled or without any disabilities at all.

“Thrombectomy is an extraordinary, highly-specialised, procedure that can save lives, reduce disability and is absolutely cost effective. One thrombectomy patient is estimated to save the NHS £47,000 over a five year period.

“We congratulate everyone involved in the North of Scotland thrombectomy planning group on making this happen. We know it’s not been easy. It has required serious commitment from everyone involved. By working together, hundreds of people affected by stroke and their families will benefit over the next few years.

“All Scots deserve the same. Thrombectomy must also be made available to the larger population centres of Glasgow and Edinburgh as soon as possible.

“We urge all those involved in developments for these next two sites to work together with purpose, and for the Scottish Government and Health Boards involved to urgently resolve or remove any barriers towards implementation and delivery. The time it has taken and is taking Health Boards to sort this out is lengthy and unacceptable.”

Professor Rustam Al-Shahi Salman, consultant neurologist in Edinburgh and President of the British Association of Stroke Physicians, says: “Mechanical thrombectomy for acute ischaemic stroke is one of the most effective treatments in modern medicine.

“We knew this in 2015. In the last five years, about 45 people in Scotland have had this treatment, but about 700 people should have it each year. I am relieved that this dire disservice to patients with stroke is beginning to come to an end in Tayside. Patients elsewhere in Scotland deserve the same.”

Case study

Norrie Andrews, 77, from Glasgow had his stroke in Majorca last year. Only a few days into the holiday, Anne, Norrie’s partner, had gone to check on some electricity issues they had been experiencing. On her return, she found Norrie slumped over the side of his chair unable to talk and unable to move. Norrie had had a massive stroke.

He was taken to the local hospital quickly, and was administered with thrombolysis, a drug to break up the clot. Unfortunately the thrombolysis had no effect and the doctors decided Norrie would benefit from thrombectomy. He was immediately transferred to Son Espases University Hospital in Palma.

Anne had to give consent for Norrie to undergo thrombectomy (on his behalf.) It felt like an endless series of questions and forms that needed answered.

The procedure took 15 minutes and when Anne went up to the intensive care unit to see him she was amazed. He was alert, his speech was starting to come back and some movement too. They could hardly believe how something so horrifying had turned on its head.

Norrie still had some mild impairments, but the seriousness of his disability was saved (they believe,) by thrombectomy. And just over two weeks later, Norrie walked out of hospital without any difficulty and his speech was fine.

Anne said: “The doctors told me that had Norrie not had thrombectomy, he would never have been out of a wheelchair or spoken again. I was so relieved to hear this and we both felt very fortunate to have been in Majorca at the time.

“After returning home, I discovered thrombectomy would not have been available at the time of Norrie’s stroke. I was amazed to think a small island like Majorca had the treatment my husband so badly needed. Norrie is now back to his old life again.

“He walks every day and I am thrilled he has started to play golf again. He keeps his brain ticking over with puzzles, crosswords and word searches. He’s seeing his friends now, which has lifted his spirits and I’m able to see my own friends too.

“I am thrilled to hear thrombectomy is available in Scotland now. Stroke is a devastating illness and the disability caused by a stroke can be lifelong, destroying lives. I hope now there will be more people in Scotland making better recoveries from stroke because of thrombectomy.”

COVID VACCINE BREAKTHROUGH

‘Today is a great day for science and humanity’

The first effective vaccine against coronavirus vaccine can prevent more than 90% of people from getting Covid-19, a preliminary analysis shows. The vaccine developers, Pfizer and BioNTech – have described it as a “great day for science and humanity”.

Vaccine candidate was found to be more than 90% effective in preventing COVID-19 in participants without evidence of prior SARS-CoV-2 infection in the first interim efficacy analysis
Analysis evaluated 94 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in trial participants
Study enrolled 43,538 participants, with 42% having diverse backgrounds, and no serious safety concerns have been observed; Safety and additional efficacy data continue to be collected
Submission for Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) planned for soon after the required safety milestone is achieved, which is currently expected to occur in the third week of November
Clinical trial to continue through to final analysis at 164 confirmed cases in order to collect further data and characterize the vaccine candidate’s performance against other study endpoints

Pfizer Inc. and BioNTech SE today announced their mRNA-based vaccine candidate, BNT162b2, against SARS-CoV-2 has demonstrated evidence of efficacy against COVID-19 in participants without prior evidence of SARS-CoV-2 infection, based on the first interim efficacy analysis conducted on November 8, 2020 by an external, independent Data Monitoring Committee (DMC) from the Phase 3 clinical study.

“Today is a great day for science and humanity. The first set of results from our Phase 3 COVID-19 vaccine trial provides the initial evidence of our vaccine’s ability to prevent COVID-19,” said Dr. Albert Bourla, Pfizer Chairman and CEO.

“We are reaching this critical milestone in our vaccine development program at a time when the world needs it most with infection rates setting new records, hospitals nearing over-capacity and economies struggling to reopen.

“With today’s news, we are a significant step closer to providing people around the world with a much-needed breakthrough to help bring an end to this global health crisis. We look forward to sharing additional efficacy and safety data generated from thousands of participants in the coming weeks.”

After discussion with the FDA, the companies recently elected to drop the 32-case interim analysis and conduct the first interim analysis at a minimum of 62 cases. Upon the conclusion of those discussions, the evaluable case count reached 94 and the DMC performed its first analysis on all cases.

The case split between vaccinated individuals and those who received the placebo indicates a vaccine efficacy rate above 90%, at 7 days after the second dose. This means that protection is achieved 28 days after the initiation of the vaccination, which consists of a 2-dose schedule.

As the study continues, the final vaccine efficacy percentage may vary. The DMC has not reported any serious safety concerns and recommends that the study continue to collect additional safety and efficacy data as planned. The data will be discussed with regulatory authorities worldwide.

“I want to thank the thousands of people who volunteered to participate in the clinical trial, our academic collaborators and investigators at the study sites, and our colleagues and collaborators around the world who are dedicating their time to this crucial endeavor,” added Bourla. “We could not have come this far without the tremendous commitment of everyone involved.”

“The first interim analysis of our global Phase 3 study provides evidence that a vaccine may effectively prevent COVID-19. This is a victory for innovation, science and a global collaborative effort,” said Prof. Ugur Sahin, BioNTech co-founder and CEO.

“When we embarked on this journey 10 months ago this is what we aspired to achieve. Especially today, while we are all in the midst of a second wave and many of us in lockdown, we appreciate even more how important this milestone is on our path towards ending this pandemic and for all of us to regain a sense of normality.

“We will continue to collect further data as the trial continues to enroll for a final analysis planned when a total of 164 confirmed COVID-19 cases have accrued. I would like to thank everyone who has contributed to make this important achievement possible.”

The Phase 3 clinical trial of BNT162b2 began on July 27 and has enrolled 43,538 participants to date, 38,955 of whom have received a second dose of the vaccine candidate as of November 8, 2020.

Approximately 42% of global participants and 30% of U.S. participants have racially and ethnically diverse backgrounds. The trial is continuing to enroll and is expected to continue through the final analysis when a total of 164 confirmed COVID-19 cases have accrued.

The study also will evaluate the potential for the vaccine candidate to provide protection against COVID-19 in those who have had prior exposure to SARS-CoV-2, as well as vaccine prevention against severe COVID-19 disease.

In addition to the primary efficacy endpoints evaluating confirmed COVID-19 cases accruing from 7 days after the second dose, the final analysis now will include, with the approval of the FDA, new secondary endpoints evaluating efficacy based on cases accruing 14 days after the second dose as well.

The companies believe that the addition of these secondary endpoints will help align data across all COVID-19 vaccine studies and allow for cross-trial learnings and comparisons between these novel vaccine platforms. The companies have posted an updated version of the study protocol at https://www.pfizer.com/science/coronavirus.

Pfizer and BioNTech are continuing to accumulate safety data and currently estimate that a median of two months of safety data following the second (and final) dose of the vaccine candidate – the amount of safety data specified by the FDA in its guidance for potential Emergency Use Authorization – will be available by the third week of November. Additionally, participants will continue to be monitored for long-term protection and safety for an additional two years after their second dose.

Along with the efficacy data generated from the clinical trial, Pfizer and BioNTech are working to prepare the necessary safety and manufacturing data to submit to the FDA to demonstrate the safety and quality of the vaccine product produced.

Based on current projections the companies expect to produce globally up to 50 million vaccine doses in 2020 and up to 1.3 billion doses in 2021.

Pfizer and BioNTech now plan to submit data from the full Phase 3 trial for scientific peer-review publication.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson is to hold a press conference at 5pm and Scotland’s First Minister Nicola Sturgeon says the vaccine announcement is welcome news.

The First Minister ended today’s lunchtime media briefing by saying: “It might not be all that visible at the moment but there is light at the end of this tunnel.

“The news we’ve heard this morning – that early indications show a vaccine being developed by the pharmaceutical company Pfizer, which has been trialled in other countries across the world, is 90% effective – is good news. Perhaps amongst the best news we have had in recent weeks.

“It’s not going to provide us with the way out of this today, or tomorrow, or next week, or perhaps not even in this calendar year. But this development, along with all of the work that is going into the development of other vaccines, does give us real hope that in the not too distant future, science is going to find us the way out of this terrible time.

“So hold onto that hope today, and also use it as a motivation. What we are living through right now, and all the restrictions that are so difficult for all of us, will not last forever. But it is really important we stick with them so that we get out of the other side of this with as few people as possible becoming ill, with as few people as possible losing their lives.

“That means all of us sticking with these tough restrictions that we are all fed up with but which we know will reduce the impact of this virus.

“So please stick with it for now and keep hold of the hope we have today that there is an end, and that we will see it in the not too distant future.”

Menopause Mystery

MENOPAUSE: Your guestions ansered by a gynaecologist

Menopause is a natural part of the ageing process, something that happens to everyone who menstruates. Most of us will know someone experiencing symptoms of the menopause, but despite this, for many, menopause still means mystery.

To help people better understand what the menopause is and how it affects us, intimate healthcare brand INTIMINA UK asked resident Gynaecologist and Obstetrician Dr Shree Datta to answer the top 10 of the most common in clinic questions about the menopause.

So for anyone struggling to get an appointment with a GP or Gynaecologist during lockdown, or even those with a keen interest in knowing more about their body, then check out Dr Shree’s menopause fact file below.

1. What is menopause?

Menopause is a stage of life which every woman experiences. It’s the time when you stop having periods and usually occurs between the age of 45 to 55. This occurs as your hormone levels drop and means that you no longer release eggs to fall pregnant naturally. The average age for women to experience menopause in the UK is 51 years.

2. Why does the menopause happen?

Women go through menopause because their hormone levels change, specifically there is a fall in oestrogen and progesterone level as you age and your ovaries “retire”. This affects periods and the ability to conceive naturally as well as resulting in the symptoms above. You may notice a change in your periods – for example, their frequency or regularity – in the time leading up to the menopause, but sometimes they may stop suddenly. In some women, menopause may be induced by treatment such as chemotherapy.

3. What are the symptoms of menopause?

Most women experience at least one symptom around the time of menopause. Symptoms really vary from woman to woman, as does how severe they are and how long they last. Common symptoms include hot flushes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, mood changes (such as feeling anxious or depressed), fatigue, difficulty sleeping, headaches, a drop in libido and joint or muscle pain. You may also notice a change in your periods – for example, their frequency or regularity – in the time leading upto the menopause.

4. How long does the menopause last?

Medically, menopause is defined as 12 months’ since your last period. However, the symptoms of menopause can continue, although they may become much more manageable. You may notice a transition period where you start to experience symptoms of menopause before your periods stop completely and this may last several years.

5. Is there a way to test whether I am going through the menopause?

Yes, you may be referred by your doctor for blood tests. These will look at your hormone levels such as FSH and LH, along with your oestrogen count.

6. What causes hot flushes?

Hot flushes are one of the most commonly experienced symptoms for women going through menopause. They are the sudden feeling of heat, sweating, palpitations and blushing that spreads from the face through the body and lasts for several minutes. Some people only experience a few hot flushes, where others experience many a day and you may experience blushing and sweating with them. They are caused by hormone changes in the body, but may be triggered by stress, alcohol or coffee, spicy food and smoking.

7. How can you treat the menopause?

In the first instance we will go through a range of measures, including reviewing your diet and lifestyle prior to considering prescribing HRT. Treatment will depend on your symptoms – for example, if you experience vaginal dryness, we will consider whether an oestrogen-based cream may help your symptoms. If you experience hot flushes, we’ll review your diet and caffeine and alcohol intake and consider oestrogen and progesterone therapy. Thin cotton clothing may also help. HRT comes in various different forms such as skin patches, gels and implants and we will discuss what best suits you. We will also check your blood pressure before prescribing medication and consider your family history and medical risk factors.

8. Are there risks to taking HRT?

HRT use in the long-term can increase your risk of stroke, blood clots and breast cancer, but this depends on your age, family history and medical history. Your Gynaecologist will review these before prescribing HRT and you will be reviewed regularly. Usually, women can take HRT for up to five years safely. We will always start on the lowest effective dose of medication and would advise stopping HRT (or reducing the dose) once symptoms are manageable.

9. What other treatments are there for the menopause?Acupuncture or black cohosh may help reduce hot flushes and night sweats, but you may experience side effects such as stomach upsets or rashes when taking black cohosh. You might also benefit from strengthening your pelvic floor muscles, which support the bladder, bowel and affect sexual function, by regularly doing kegel exercises. Intimina has even developed the KegelSmart™ – a revolutionary new way to do your Kegels. It’s a personal pelvic floor trainer which sets a routine that is simple to follow, safe to use, and completely tailored to your individual needs.

10. Does the menopause affect my health in the long term?Once you have gone through the menopause you are more at risk of osteoporosis as bone loss is affected by oestrogen levels. Vaginal dryness may also lead to pain during sex, so lubricants may also be helpful.

11. When can I stop contraception?

It’s still possible to fall pregnant as you approach the menopause, so make sure you continue contraception until you have fully gone through the menopause – so until you have stopped having periods for 12 months.

Edinburgh cancer survivor launches charity Movember auction with John Pye

SCOTTISH student Stewart Morgan has launched an online charity event, in partnership with Bo’ness-based online auction house John Pye Auctions, to support Movember following his cancer diagnosis.

Stewart, 22, from Edinburgh, was diagnosed with testicular cancer just four days after his 21st birthday. However, since being given the ‘all clear’ he is campaigning to not only raise money but also to educate high school boys on the genetic disease and to speak up if they think something is wrong.

The auction – which is now live until 12 noon on Monday 30 November – has an incredible range of items available. There are currently 28 lots up for grabs – with more due to be added – all generously donated by local businesses and individuals, including sporting experiences, luxury overnight breaks and selfcare products.

Highlights include:

Gleneagles 4 Ball on your personal choice of world-renowned courses
Macallan 18-year Double Cask
Overnight stay and afternoon tea at the Pine Trees Hotel, Pitlochry

Stewart said: “This is my first charity auction, so I’m thrilled that John Pye decided to support my cause. As a fit and healthy young guy, being diagnosed with testicular cancer came as a huge shock – I always thought I was invincible.

“From the initial shock of finding out I had cancer, to telling my family and friends, countless appointments and finally undergoing surgery in October 2019, it was a terrifying experience.

“However, since becoming cancer free I’ve tried to turn it into something positive. I’m constantly encouraging people to just check – even once a month in the shower, look out for any pain, swelling, firmness or lumps and call your GP if you are unsure. I was amazed at the number of guys, of all ages, who had no idea what symptoms to look out for!

“This happens to brothers, dads, sons, grandads, friends, uncles, cousins and more. If you notice something you aren’t sure about; ASK!”

All funds raised will be added to Stewart’s Movember fundraising total in addition to his work educating local high schools and completing a number of outrageous challenges. He has also organized a number of bus adverts in collaboration with his university Heriot-Watt.

Adam Pye, managing director at John Pye Auctions, said: “We’re absolutely delighted to help Stewart raise money for Movember. It’s such a worthy cause and after hearing about his personal experience we were more than happy to offer our assistance.

“We hope the money raised will go a long way in supporting testicular cancer, but more importantly we hope this campaign encourages men of all ages to be more aware of the symptoms and to get checked out if something doesn’t seem right.”

Since January this year, John Pye Auctions has helped to raise more than £70,000 through its online charity auctions and has smashed its aim of raising £50,000 for the entire year.

The impressive total has been donated following each auction to a wide range of charities across the UK, each with the purpose of making a difference to the local community.

To see the full auction list and place a bid, please visit:

https://www.johnpyeauctions.co.uk/lot_list.asp?saleid=9158&siteid=1

To find out more about John Pye Auctions and the comprehensive services it offers please visit: www.johnpye.co.uk or join the conversation on Twitter @John_Pye.

More mental health support for students

Extra £1.32 million to improve wellbeing

Students across Scotland will have access to more support to help them deal with the mental health impacts of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

Additional Scottish Government funding will allow support staff to carry out more frequent checks to identify potential mental health issues, as well as wider welfare concerns, such as access to food deliveries and other necessities.

The funding will also help to increase the number of drop-in chats for students, which will offer counselling on a digital platform.

Staff will also be able to direct students to the appropriate services, including referring them to a clinician, if appropriate.

Minister for Mental Health Clare Haughey said: “We want students and their families to feel reassured that practical and welfare support is in place, particularly given current circumstances.

“This extra funding will build on the support already in place, including the additional counsellors provided by our recent investment of £3.64 million.

“During the pandemic we have committed £6 million of funding to improve mental health throughout Scotland. And on Monday, we announced £15 million to respond to the mental health issues of children and young people. Students have access to all services available to the general population, including the Clear Your Head campaign to support people to take care of their mental health and wellbeing.

“We have also expanded the NHS24 Mental Health Hub so that it is now available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and increased the capacity of the Breathing Space telephone helpline and web support service.”

NUS Scotland President Matt Crilly said: “We warmly welcome today’s additional funding which will help to support students’ mental health and wellbeing after a tough start to the academic year.

“The impact of COVID-19 on students has undoubtedly taken its toll – academically, financially and socially. Now more than ever we need to ensure that their mental health and wellbeing is looked after, and this funding is a welcome start to ensuring that every student who needs support, has access to it. We look forward to further details of how the funding will be allocated and spent.”

Director of Access, Learning and Outcomes at the Scottish Funding Council, James Dunphy said: “Positive mental health is fundamental to students’ ability to progress and make the most of their education experience.

“We know the COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the mental and emotional health of many students, both new and returning, and so we welcome this additional funding.

“Colleges and universities have made great progress with the funding they have already received, employing additional counsellors to support students in need, and this additional funding will enable them to target their support in more flexible ways, including increased access to online services, crisis intervention, and wellbeing support for those in isolation.”

Universities will have accessible wellbeing services, with details on their websites.

The Student Information Scotland website has the student support pages of every institution to signpost students to the support which is available.

Social Distancing Measures ‘encourages cyberbullying among children’

Anti-Bullying Awareness Week runs from the 11-15 November 2020. In this article Need2Know Books looks at the effects that social distancing and lockdown measures have had on children as social media dependency and online screen time increases, creating more opportunities for cyberbullying.

For further information the Essential Guide to Bullying by Jennifer Thomson is a great resource.

Enhanced anxiety and stress are not the only conditions parents and caregivers need to be careful of in this world of ‘new normal.’ A recent multidisciplinary research report found that the consequences of quarantine and social distancing measures are themselves key risk factors for mental health issues which includes cyberbullying among children.

There is no question that bullying numbers will rise in 2020 as many school’s moved classes online during the Spring and Summer months.

This Increase in online screen time has created more opportunities for cyberbullying and harassment. Unfortunately, one of the darker sides of COVID-19 is the rise of racial issues and cyberbullying among children.

Recent research has found that because the virus originated from Wuhan, China and has largely been referred to as the “Chinese virus”, this has increased bullying among children of Asian descent who are at a greater risk of racial bullying than their classmates. Bullying has largely been done through private and text messaging in a ‘virtual’ environment.

More than 1.5 billion children worldwide have been affected by school closures. As a result, children have been forced to go online for learning as well as for hobbies and social activities.

It has been reported that 82% of parents said that their children’s screen time has increased during lockdown
30% said that their children were having an extra four hours or more of non-school related screen time per day
Children, especially adolescents and teens, are spending a greater amount of time on apps such as such as Zoom, Snapchat, Instagram and Facebook.

Prior to the pandemic parents have been extremely concerned about their children’s screen time and have struggled to limit this. The problem that has always faced parents is that they cannot always protect their children from cyberbullying, grooming and inappropriate messages online.

Cyberbullying in the virtual world

Despite some of the positive benefits of online learning research has found that the darker elements of school life transitioned online.

Cyberbullying has been on the rise before lockdown – some reports suggest that just 20% of bullying takes place at school now.
Cyberbullying incidents increased by 70% between March and April this year when lock down was at its peak.
The strain placed on mental health caused by being confined to the home for weeks at a time could be making matters worse.

The UK government has published guidelines online titled “Coronavirus (Covid-19): support for parents and carers to keep children safe online” which is available to view.

Tips and Advice

Have the ‘talk’ open the lines of communication between yourself and your child. Discuss what cyberbullying is and what to do when it happens.
Don’t be afraid to set guidelines and take control of what your children see and do online.
The applications used by schools all have tools for reporting abuse. Show your kids where to find the abuse reporting tools and how to fill in the forms.
Keep any evidence of inappropriate messages and report it to a school official ie. teacher, headteacher or school nurse.
Use your parental controls. Androids, Apple and Windows all have built in parental controls These allow parents to block inappropriate content, control access to apps, and limit screen time.

We enter an uncertain future with lockdown restrictions continuing into the winter months. It is important that parents find positive ways to curtail the ‘pandemic effect’ and find a balance with online screen time to help avoid cyberbullying. If you are concerned about a child’s mental welfare or notice worrying behaviour, please seek professional advice.

For more information and advice on cyberbullying visit:

bullying.co.uk and childline.org.uk.

To learn more about Need2Know Books visit: www.need2knowbooks.co.uk.