The Calverton Surgery newsletter – November 2023

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Covid and Flu

At the time of writing this newsletter we are mid-way through our practice flu vaccination clinics which I am delighted to say have gone smoothly. Thanks must go to all our practice team who turn up on a Saturday morning to ‘go the extra mile’ for our patients. Thanks also to all of you who attend and keep our vaccination numbers pleasingly high.  As previously advised Covid booster jabs are being done outside the practice and for those eligible, can be booked via the NHS app, online (https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/covid-19-services/covid-19-vaccination-services/book-covid-19-vaccination/ ) or ringing 119. At present private Covid boosters are not available in the UK.

It does look like the flu jab this year will be effective (based on the experience of the past Southern Hemisphere winter) and for those still eligible we have appointments still. We are particularly keen to hear from our under 65’s and get them booked in.  Otherwise, it is available privately at local pharmacies. Most people get flu rarely but even in healthy individuals can still be extremely debilitating so well worth avoiding if you can.

Plus, don’t forget the Shingles vaccine – Anyone who is severely immunosuppressed and over 50 will be able to get two doses of the Shingrix vaccine – currently the vaccine is only available to those over 70. From 1 September 2023, those turning 65 and 70 will also be able to get the vaccine after their birthday, in addition to those already aged 70-80

Some versions of last months newsletter missed this information so I have repeated it this month,

‘Also, are you aware of someone with a gambling problem? We are aware that with the rise of on-line services this is an increasing and often hidden problem. There is now an East Midlands Gambling Harms service. It is free to access on 0300 013 2330, www.eastmidlandsgambling.nhs.uk . They offer advice and support, workshops and therapy sessions and can help turn a gambling problem into something more manageable.’

Additionally, we welcome Lysette Cherry as a new member of our dispensing team and say a very fond farewell to our secretary Julie Chambers who will be greatly missed as she moves onto pastures new.

Finally, I would like to promote a new service – Better Housing Better Health (BHBH) is a not-for-profit service run by the National Energy Foundation, working to help residents living in or at risk of living in fuel poverty to access advice and support. For more information visit www.bhbh.org.uk or give them a call on 0800 107 0044, Monday to Friday 9am-5pm (excluding bank holidays). 

                                                                                                                                  Phil Rayner