How to Manage the heat 

Most of us welcome hot weather, but when it’s too hot for too long, there are health risks.

With temperatures due to soar over the weekend and into next week, south west Londoners are being urged to stay safe in the sun and look out for each other.

Thousands of people end up in hospital each year because of heat, with conditions including severe sunburn, heat exhaustion and sun and heatstroke. Getting out and about in the hot weather can also trigger allergies, with some people admitted to hospital due to the effects of pollen or being stung by wasps, hornets, and other insects. The risk of serious illness is much higher for the older people, children and young people, and those who already have health conditions, including heart and breathing problems. Which is why it’s important to check on neighbours and older people relatives while the temperature remains high.

Advice on how to reduce the risk either for yourself or somebody you know is available on the NHS website (www.nhs.uk/live-well/healthy-body/heatwave-how-to-cope-in-hot-weather)

Those with less serious conditions are encouraged to ‘talk before they walk’, by getting advice from the free NHS 111 phone and online service to check symptoms and decide on the best course of action. People with minor injuries or mild conditions which can be better dealt with at home or with over-the-counter remedies and advice from community pharmacists are reminded not to go to A&E and call NHS 111 if they are unsure.

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	🌾 Do you or your child suffer from hay-fever? 💊 With the ongoing heatwave, make sure that you have enough hay-fever medication. For expert advice you can speak to your local pharmacist, no appointment needed 👉 https://www.nhs.uk/service-search/pharmacy/find-a-pharmacy
	Most of us welcome hot weather, but when it’s too hot for too long, there are health risks.   If it’s not an emergency but you need help fast think 111 first or call your GP. Remember A&E is for emergencies #HelpUsHelpYou
	While many Londoners enjoy the sunshine, for some the hot weather brings health risks. Be sure to check in on neighbours, friends and relatives who may be more vulnerable in the hot weather.   For more advice, visit https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/seasonal-health/heatwave-how-to-cope-in-hot-weather/
	As the hot weather continues, here is a reminder of what to look for when buying and applying sunscreen. Remember to not rely on sunscreen alone to protect yourself from the sun. Wear suitable clothing and spend time in the shade.
	Hot and humid weather can increase your risk of dehydration. Drink fluids when you feel any dehydration symptoms.   More advice is available here https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/seasonal-health/heatwave-how-to-cope-in-hot-weather/
	The best thing to do in the hot weather is stay out of the direct sun, especially between 11am and 3pm as UV rays are strongest during these hours. #BeattheHeat   The NHS website has lots of useful information: https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/seasonal-health/heatwave-how-to-cope-in-hot-weather/

We kindly ask that where possible, you wear a face covering when attending the surgery.

Please Do Not request your medication earlier than you normally would. Prescriptions can and should be ordered online via Patient Access or by email, only if this is not possible we can take requests over the phone. Please note prescription requests take 48 working hours.

Information regarding immunisations and 8 week baby checks

We are maintaining our immunisation programme.　

Please book appointments for all routine childhood immunisations; from birth to preschool children. Also, pertussis vaccination in pregnancy.

If you have been invited for routine health checks/ Immunisations/vaccinations please attend the surgery when requested as Public Health England have stressed how important it is to maintain our patients health during these trying times. 

Shingles Vaccine

Eligibility for shingles vaccination From 1 September 2020, the eligibility criteria have been simplified. Anyone between the ages of 70 and 80 years* is now eligible to receive the shingles vaccine, subject to there being no contraindications to shingles vaccine and they have not received a previous shingles vaccination.

For More Info
https://www.shinglesaware.co.uk/

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/shingles-herpes-zosterthe-green-book-chapter-28a

Feeling anxious?

The coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak means that life is changing for all of us for a while. It may cause you to feel anxious, stressed, worried, sad, bored, lonely or frustrated.

The Richmond Wellbeing Service is offering you telephone and video consultations to help you manage at this challenging time.  You can self refer by visiting their website.

The NHS website also has some resources available that may be useful. Please do not hesitate to contact the Practice if you need further guidance or support.

Taking sick leave

Patients will no longer need to request a fit note after 7 days of sickness, they can now self-certificate for 28 days (including non-working days such as weekends and bank holidays). Proof of sickness cannot be requested by employers earlier than 28 days.

If an employee started their sick leave before 10 December 2021, they still need to give proof if they’ve been off work for more than 7 days, (including non-working days).

This temporary change to the rules has been made to support general practice teams by freeing up some time. Guidance for healthcare professionals and employers can be found here.

Information for patients can be found via this link: www.gov.uk/taking-sick-leave.