Tag: Health and wellbeing

Parents and carers urged to help children start New Year healthy

UKHSA urges parents and carers to take these simple steps to ensure children make the healthiest start to the New Year

The UK Health Security Agency is reminding parents and carers of the simple steps they can take to ensure their children make the healthiest start to the new school term. The new year brings with it an opportunity to teach children about the importance of good hygiene and with the recent increase in cases of flu and high levels of other viruses such as norovirus, it’s more important than ever.

The latest surveillance data from UKHSA shows that flu activity continued to increase over the Christmas break, with hospitalisations also increasing. Flu is now circulating at high levels in the community, an increase on the levels we saw before the school holidays, which is why it’s especially important to reinforce good hygiene habits as children return to school.

Figures are expected to rise further as children go back to school and many parents return to the workplace. However, there are simple steps that all families can take to reduce the spread of these infections and protect households and classrooms from illness this New Year.

Teaching good hygiene habits

Parents are encouraged to lead by example and encourage good hygiene habits such as using a tissue to catch coughs and sneezes, as well as washing hands.

Regularly washing your hands with soap and warm water for 20 seconds, or using hand sanitiser when convenient, is one of the most effective ways to stop the spread of germs. Alcohol gels don’t kill all bugs so don’t rely on these.

Knowing when to keep your child at home and when to send them to school

January marks the start of a new term, with new things to learn and friends to make. Time off school can disrupt learning and also inconvenience parents and carers having to stay off work. This is why it’s important to know when to keep your child at home and when to send them to school.

Children can stay in school with symptoms such as a runny nose, sore throat or slight cough if otherwise well and do not have a high temperature but should stay home if they’re displaying symptoms such as having a fever. If your child has diarrhoea and vomiting, they should stay home for at least 48 hours after these symptoms clear up.

If you have symptoms of flu or COVID-19 such as a high temperature, cough and feeling tired and achy, try to limit your contact with others. If you have symptoms and need to leave the house, you should consider wearing a face covering.

Stopping the spread of stomach bugs

Stomach bugs spread easily in schools, nurseries and households. If you or your child have diarrhoea and vomiting, washing your hands with soap and warm water and using bleach-based products to clean surfaces will help stop infections from spreading.

Alcohol gels do not kill off norovirus so soap and warm water is best. Don’t prepare food for others if you have diarrhoea or vomiting or for 48 hours after symptoms stop. If you are unwell, you should also avoid visiting people in hospitals and care homes to avoid passing on the infection to those who are more vulnerable. Do not to return to school, nursery or work until 48 hours after symptoms have stopped.

Getting vaccinated

Flu vaccination helps to protect against infection and severe disease. Although it is late in the programme, if you are eligible and not yet vaccinated, you can still take up your offer of immunisation.

Last year, falling vaccination rates among young children resulted in a widespread measles outbreak in England, which is why it’s important to check your children are up-to-date with their routine vaccinations, which protect against diseases such as measles, mumps, rubella, diphtheria and polio. If parents are unsure of their child’s vaccination status, they can check their child’s red book or contact their local GP.  

If you are pregnant, it’s also important that you take up all vaccinations offered to you, including whooping cough and the new RSV vaccine which protects newborn babies against serious illness.

Dr Richard Pebody, Director, Clinical & Emerging Infections at UKHSA, said: “It’s an important time of year, as children get started on the new school term.

“There are simple steps you can take to help stop the spread of nasty illness in the next few weeks of winter, including making sure your child is regularly washing their hands, knowing when to keep your child off school and ensuring they are up to date with vaccinations.”

Scotland trails behind as nationwide trends highlight growing shift toward plant-based diets

  • A new survey of over 10,000 people, conducted by Ipsos on behalf of The Vegan Society, shows that 2% of people in Scotland now identify as vegan or follow a plant-based diet, compared to the national average of 3%. 
  • Across Great Britain, 10% of the population are now reducing or eliminating animal products from their diets in some way. 
  • Animal welfare is the leading reason people choose to go vegan or plant-based, with 57% of respondents identifying it as one of their primary motivations. This is followed closely by concerns about physical health (52%) and the environment (48%). 

New research from The Vegan Society reveals that 2% of people in Scotland now identify as vegan or follow a plant-based diet, compared to the national average of 3%. This marks a notable gap, as Britain’s evolving dietary habits reflect the growing appeal of ethical and sustainable food choices. 

Across Great Britain, 10% of the population are now reducing or eliminating animal products from their diets, spanning vegans, vegetarians, pescatarians, and other plant-forward lifestyles. This includes approximately 2 million people (3% of the population) who follow vegan or plant-based diets, and an additional 4% who identify as vegetarian, indicating a broad, collective movement toward more mindful and sustainable eating habits. 

The research reveals regional variations in the adoption of vegan and plant-based diets across the UK. London, the North East, and the South West emerge as hotspots, with 4% of their populations identifying as either vegan or plant-based, above the national average of 3%. In contrast, regions such as Scotland, Wales and the East Midlands report the lowest levels, with only 2% of residents following these diets. 

The data also highlights key demographic trends. Younger generations are at the forefront of this shift, with those aged 16-44 being twice as likely to follow a vegan lifestyle as older age groups, signaling a strong momentum for continued growth in this lifestyle. Women are more likely than men to adopt vegan or plant-based diets, with 3.60% of women identifying as such compared to 1.98% of men. 

Commenting on the findings, Claire Ogley, Head of Campaigns, Policy and Research at The Vegan Society, said: “These results reveal a remarkable transformation in attitudes toward veganism and plant-based living across Britain.

“It’s inspiring to see younger generations leading the way, with a growing number of people adopting more sustainable and compassionate lifestyles for a variety of reasons, from health to the environment to animal welfare.” 

The Vegan Society’s research underscores a commitment shared by millions to reducing the impact of human consumption on animals and the planet. As awareness grows, regions including Scotland will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of food and lifestyle choices in the UK. 

For more information on veganism, visit The Vegan Society’s website.  

Christmas saw anticipated rise in flu, latest UKHSA data shows

Public urged to prevent further ‘new year spread’ by following good hygiene and taking up ‘final chance’ vaccines where still available

Latest data from the UK Health Security Agency shows the anticipated increase in flu activity over the festive season, as people are urged to protect themselves this New Year.

UKHSA’s COVID-19, influenza (flu), Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) and norovirus surveillance bulletin shows that flu is now circulating at high levels, with positivity increasing to 29.5% in week 52, compared to 26.4% the previous week (51) and 21.7% in week 50. 

The overall weekly hospital admission rate for influenza increased to 14.09 per 100,000 in week 52, compared with 10.69 per 100,000 the previous week (51) and 8.72 per 100,000 in week 50.

Vaccination offers the best protection against serious illness and hospitalisation, particularly for those who are vulnerable or elderly. While the national booking system for flu vaccination closed on 19 December, eligible groups are reminded that they can still book their vaccination through their GP surgery or local pharmacy where available.

Flu is currently at high levels and often circulates for many weeks through the course of winter. Vaccination will provide those eligible with the best protection.

Professor Susan Hopkins, Chief Medical Advisor at the UK Health Security Agency, said: “For many of us, the festive period is marked with parties and socialising with friends and family, meaning it’s not unusual to see an increase in flu at this time of year and this was anticipated.

“This is why we have been urging those eligible to take up a free flu vaccine. The good news if you did, is that you are less likely to be severely affected by flu. If you’re still offered a vaccine through local services, you should take it up as we could see high levels for some weeks still. This is particularly important if you’re a health and social care worker, as we know these services are under significant winter pressures right now.

“If you have symptoms of flu or COVID-19 such as a high temperature, cough and feeling tired and achy, try to limit your contact with others, especially those who are vulnerable.

“If you have symptoms and need to leave the house, our advice remains that you should wear a face covering. Washing hands regularly and using and disposing tissues in bins can reduce the spread of respiratory illnesses.”

UKHSA’s surveillance bulletin shows that COVID-19 levels decreased over the festive period, with RSV also decreasing. Although COVID-19 is currently circulating at low levels, this could change in the coming winter months. Vaccination against RSV is being offered for the first time to anyone who is 28 or more weeks pregnant, along with people aged 75 to 79 years.

New report highlights barriers to health equity for patients living with cancer and/or blood disorders

PATIENTS ASSOCIATION CALLS FOR ACTION

A new report by the Patients Association, funded by Bristol Myers Squibb, sheds light on the stark health inequities faced by patients living with cancer and/or blood disorders, revealing significant disparities driven by social determinants of health, systemic barriers, and discrimination.

The report also offers recommendations to improve access to equitable healthcare.

The report identifies critical issues such as economic and social factors, mistrust in healthcare services, systemic racism, and lack of joined-up care, all of which exacerbate health inequalities for underserved communities.

The report calls for a patient-centred approach that prioritises shared decision-making to ensure cancer and/or blood disorder patients are treated as equal partners in their care. It also calls for a multi-agency approach to tackle health disparities, aligning national and local strategies, such as NHS England’s Core20PLUS5 framework, to enhance access to early cancer diagnosis.

The report finds that cancer and/or blood disorder patients from underserved communities consistently experience worse health outcomes and lower standards of care. Contributing factors include delays in diagnosis, lower uptake of screening programmes, and mistrust of healthcare systems. Barriers such as low health literacy, cultural insensitivity from staff, and systemic discrimination further hinder equitable access to care.

Patients interviewed for this report highlighted several critical issues, including difficulty navigating healthcare systems and insufficient communication about their rights and available benefits. Many patients reported transportation and medication costs causing financial difficulties.

Organisations working with underserved communities reinforced these findings, emphasising the pervasive mistrust in the health among marginalised communities. This mistrust often results from discrimination, such as delayed diagnoses and unequal access to treatment. LGBTQ+ patients and those with sickle cell disease described particularly hostile or dismissive interactions with healthcare providers.

The report also draws attention to the role of social determinants of health, such as inadequate housing, poverty, and living in a deprived neighbourhood. These factors are closely linked to higher rates of cancer and mortality, as well as reduced access to essential healthcare resources.

Tackling these challenges requires urgent action at both a national and local level. The Patients Association calls on policymakers, healthcare professionals, and community organisations to work together to ensure equitable access to care for all.

Reflecting on the report, Rachel Power, Chief Executive of the Patients Association said: ““Equitable healthcare is an urgent necessity. It is deeply concerning that barriers such as systemic discrimination, financial hardship, and mistrust of the health and care system persist, disproportionately affecting underserved communities.

“Only by addressing these disparities can we achieve a health and care system that provides equality and dignity for all. We call on the government and the health and care system to align national and local strategies, address the social determinants of health, and foster trust between patients and healthcare providers.

“We must work together to close these gaps and build a system rooted in fairness, trust, and accessibility.”

For more information, please contact media@patients-association.org.uk

Half of UK adults say they’ve put off losing weight

GEN Z MOST LIKELY TO DELAY

●        More than one in five UK adults (22%) have delayed losing weight for three years or more

●        Four in 10 (42%) have thought about losing weight at least once a week without taking action

●        38% of people surveyed say they waited for a ‘final straw’ to start losing weight, such as struggling to fit into clothes, feeling unfit and feeling uncomfortable in social situations

●        Now, a new study shows that joining weight loss support group, Slimming World, can quickly restore self-belief, self-confidence and self-determination. Before joining, only 40% of new members believed they could lose weight, but after just one session, this rose to 97%

The rising cost of obesity in the UK has soared from £58bn in 2020 to £98bn[1], with two thirds of adults being overweight or obese. Studies show children living with obesity are approximately 5 times more likely to become adults living with obesity[2]. The nation is in a fight for weight loss. 

Yet, there is a much bigger battle – self-belief. People whowant to lose weight are increasingly feeling lost, desperate and hopeless – their self-confidence and self-belief that anything can help them, worn away.

A new survey[3] of 2,000 UK adults commissioned by the UK and Ireland’s largest group-based weight-loss organisation Slimming Worldreveals 50% of UK adults say they’ve put off even trying to lose weight, with six in 10 of those aged 18-27 (Gen Z) the most likely to delay (63%). More than one in five people (22%) say they’ve delayed losing weight for three years or more, with many saying that has impacted their health and caused them to gain even more weight. 

The survey, carried out independently by Censuswide reveals four in 10 (42%) have thought about losing weight at least once a week without taking action, despite over 2 in 5 being unhappy with their size (43%) and over half saying they know they eat unhealthy food (54%) and seven in ten wanting to improve their health (70%). 

When questioned on why they delayed their weight loss, (38%) of UK adults agreed they waited for a ‘final straw’ before making the decision to lose weight. The most common final straws were: 

  1. struggling to fit into clothes (14%)
  2. feeling unfit (12%)
  3. impacting mood (11%)
  4. feeling uncomfortable in social situations (10%)
  5. a health scare (8%)

The survey also revealed 48% of UK adults would not consider using medication or weight loss drugs if they were looking to lose weight, compared to less than a third (30%) who would. Worrying about potential side effects was a deterrent for 32% of respondents, 23% say they don’t know what they’d be putting into their body, 21% don’t think there’s enough evidence on the long-term effects and 19% fear it wouldn’t be a long-term solution.

Within the already deafening weight loss arena, weight loss injections add even more confusion, contradiction and uncertainty. The personal conviction and self-determination of people living with overweight and obesity depletes further. 

Renowned Psychologist, Dr Linda Papadopoulos, says: “Delaying weight loss stems from fear of failure and feeling comfortable with what’s familiar. Each time we put off change, we chip away at our confidence, creating a cycle where taking action seems harder and harder.

“Procrastination isn’t just about weight – it reveals our deeper doubts about our ability to transform our lives. One way to make our goals feel more tangible and achievable is by seeking support from people who understand and share the same challenges and aspirations.

“In pulling on the strength that comes from that kind of togetherness we create something powerful – a supportive accountability network that transforms our personal intentions into collective motivation.”

There is good news. There is a way people can win the battle for self, rebuild their hope and optimism, and achieve a healthy, lasting weight loss. 

In new research[4], which surveyed more than 7,000 new Slimming World members last January, more than two thirds said that before going to a Slimming World group, they didn’t dare dream they could lose weight and stay slim (69%). More than half of the members surveyed said that they’d had feelings of doubt, uncertainty and a lack of motivation and control for more than a year, and for some people 10 years or more. 

However, in just one session, almost every new member left filled with self-belief, self-confidence and self-determination. This switch came from learning more about Slimming World’s health-giving eating plan, seeing the success of other members, and experiencing the empowering support to help them overcome their personal barriers. They left feeling: 

  • Committed to their weight loss (98%)
  • That they could lose weight and keep it off (96%)
  • Motivated to make changes to their lifestyle in order to lose weight (97%) 
  • More confident to manage the things that had previously got in the way of them losing weight (89%)

With over a decade of expertise in neurogastroenterology and cardiovascular pharmacology from leading institutions including the University of Sheffield and the University of Nottingham, Dr. Jemma Donovan PhD, Slimming World’s Research Manager, says: “This January, those feelings of doubt, fear and hopelessness could easily lead people to look to weight loss drugs as a silver bullet.

“However, unless they get effective support to make lasting changes to their eating and activity habits, they’re very likely to regain the weight once they stop the medication, and they’re far less likely to experience the sense of personal achievement and the increased self-worth that comes with knowing you’re in control in the long term.

“We also know the costs are high – painful and expensive weekly injections, with possible side-effects of diarrhoea, constipation, bloating, vomiting and more. Furthermore, the long-term safety of the regulated drugs is still unknown.

“Our research confirms what so many of our members tell us. After many years of feeling hopeless, out of control and desperate about their weight, new members quickly experience a powerful shift in self-belief, self-determination and self-confidence, restoring their hope about what they can achieve – without resorting to weight loss drugs or surgery. And that shift happens in less time than it takes to watch a movie!“

1Tony Blair Institute for Global Change: Unhealthy Numbers: The Rising Cost of Obesity in the UK

2 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26696565/

3The research was conducted by Censuswide, with 2000 Nat Rep Respondents (aged 18+) in the UK between 22.11.2024 – 26.11.2024. Censuswide abide by and employ members of the Market Research Society which is based on the ESOMAR principles and are members of The British Polling Council

NHS: Pharmacy First

NHS Pharmacy First Scotland is an NHS service provided by your local pharmacy. If you have a minor illness, a pharmacy is the first place you should go for advice.

They can advise on lots of conditions including backache, UTIs, and sore throats.

Use NHS inform’s service directory to find an open pharmacy near you:

https://nhs24.info/servicedirectory

Find out more about Pharmacy First:

https://nhs24.info/NHS-Pharmacy-First-Scotland

Stay safe from norovirus and stomach bugs this winter

NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde (NHSGGC) is urging the public to be vigilant against norovirus and to practice good hand hygiene to help avoid the spread.

Norovirus is a highly contagious stomach bug that causes diarrhoea, nausea, and vomiting. It usually increases during the winter months.

Beatrix Von Wissmann, NHSGGC Public Health Consultant said: “While viruses are a concern year-round, winter months see a spike in stomach virus cases when people spend more time indoors and are in close proximity to one another.

“These viruses can be very nasty, particularly for those who are older or more vulnerable due to existing conditions. They also cannot be treated with an antibiotic and need to run their course, so it is important to be aware of how to avoid spreading the virus if you possibly can.

“We advise that you are also prepared to know what to do if you or loved ones do feel unwell. We recommend taking note of the online selfcare guides from NHS Inform or downloading the NHS24 app.

“Anyone, who believes they need to speak to a health professional, should call NHS24 on 111 for advice. It is better to wait to speak with someone in the comfort of your own home, particularly when vomiting and diarrhoea are involved.”

NHSGGC has listed how you can protect yourself and others from the virus.

  • Stay home if symptomatic: If you experience symptoms such as sudden nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea, stay at home until at least 48 hours after your symptoms have stopped. This helps prevent spreading the virus to others, especially vulnerable individuals in hospitals and care homes.
  • Practice good hygiene: Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly with soap and water, particularly after using the toilet and before eating. Hand sanitisers are not as effective against norovirus.
  • Avoid visiting vulnerable settings: Do not visit hospitals or care homes if you or someone you live with has symptoms. This is crucial to protect patients who are at higher risk of severe illness. This includes going to A&E. If you need to speak to a health professional, call NHS24 on 111.
  • Keep surfaces clean: Regularly clean household surfaces, especially in the kitchen and bathroom, to reduce the risk of contamination.
  • Handle food safely: Avoid cooking for others while symptomatic and ensure fruits and vegetables are rinsed well before eating.

What to do if you catch norovirus:

  • Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids, such as water, to replace those lost through vomiting and diarrhoea.
  • Rest and recover: Allow the virus to run its course, which typically lasts 2-3 days.
  • Eat light: Consume easily digestible foods to ease your symptoms.

For more information visit: 

https://www.nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/infections-and-poisoning/norovirus/

NHS 24: Service under pressure

📢 IMPORTANT INFORMATION – PLEASE READ.

Today is one of the busiest days of the year for the 111 service and our staff are working extremely hard to answer all calls as quickly and as safely as possible.

The information you need may be available at #NHSinform – check out the links below for more advice.

💊Medication Queries:

For advice on prescribed or over-the-counter medicines, visit our guide. https://nhs24.info/accessing-medicines

🤧 Seasonal Ailments:

Check out NHS inform for advice on common illnesses and symptom checkers to guide your next steps. https://nhs24.info/winter-illness

📱 NHS 24 Online App:

Get health advice and locate nearby services, like pharmacies, with our free app for iOS and Android. https://nhs24.info/NHS-24-Online

✔️ Use NHS Resources Wisely:

Find out more about accessing the Right Care, Right Place: Learn more. https://nhs24.info/RightCareRightPlace

📞 Helpful Tips for Calls:

Use Wi-Fi calling and ensure your phone is charged to prevent disconnections due to network demand.

NHS 24 does not disconnect calls; network issues may cause interruptions.

If you still need to speak to us by dialling 111 please be patient, our dedicated team will answer. If you can try the above options first, it could save you time. We want to help you get the right care, in the right place. 💙

Healthy Heart Tip: How to drink less alcohol this New Year

Heart Research UK Healthy Heart Tip, written by the Health Promotion and Education Team at Heart Research UK

Alcohol can often be at the forefront of the festive season. This time of year, is for gathering and celebrating with your loved ones, which can often mean consuming too much alcohol.

Over 60% of drinkers in the UK over-indulge during the festive period, consuming more alcohol than usual and having their first drink at an earlier time of day. Alcohol consumption can have a negative effect on the heart and a few drinks can cause you to sleep poorly and be tired the next day, making you reach for unhealthy foods for a quick energy fix.  

In this week’s healthy tip, we share some ideas for how you can reduce your alcohol consumption this festive season and enter the new year feeling full of energy. 

Alcohol-free drinks 

With so many alcohol-free alternatives of your favourite big-name brands now available, why not use Christmas as a time to try them out?

You may need to try a few to find one that you like, but often they taste very similar to their alcoholic counterpart. Even if you don’t quit drinking entirely, you can reduce the amount of alcohol you consume by alternating your regular drink with an alcohol-free version.  

Mocktails 

Mocktails or cocktails without alcohol are a great way to enjoy a tasty drink this festive season. Bars and restaurants often have a wide range of mocktails for you to choose from, and they’re usually cheaper too.

Be mindful when choosing your drink of how much sugar is in it, try to avoid those containing sugar syrups and fruit juices. Instead, opt for ones containing ingredients like mint, lime juice and soda water. A fancy glass makes all the difference, so why not buy some decorative cocktail vessels, and make some indulgent mocktails at home. 

Enjoy alcohol in moderation 

To look after our heart, we don’t have to stop drinking completely. The key is to enjoy alcohol in moderation and adopt other healthy lifestyle habits alongside this.

The NHS recommends drinking no more than 12 units of alcohol per week, spread across three or more days which is the equivalent to six medium (175ml) glasses of wine or six pints of 4% beer.

By not exceeding these recommendations, you may feel more able to be physically active and cook healthier meals.