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MEDIC MAG

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Covid hospitalisations rise as new XEC strain surges - full new symptoms list

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10th October 2024 - The Mirror
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Health officials have confirmed this afternoon (October 10) that Covid cases are climbing across the UK, spurred by concerning new variants like XEC. The most recent data from the UK Health Security Agency reveals that Covid-19 incidence is going up on 'most indicators'.

 

Hospitalisations have jumped to 4.55 per 100,000, a noticeable increase from the previous week's rate of 3.72 per 100,000. With 59 COVID-19 'acute respiratory incidents' flagged in the report, the sense of urgency is palpable.

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Dr Jamie Lopez Bernal, leading Consultant Epidemiologist at UKHSA, this afternoon said in a statement: "COVID-19 is continuing to circulate, with a slight increase in hospitalisations over the past two weeks.

 

As winter approaches, we expect flu and RSV to increasingly circulate too, so if you're eligible to get vaccinated against the three main winter threats – COVID-19, flu and RSV – now is the time to take them up and get winter strong.

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Doctor's Opinion Blog

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The Decline of GP Numbers is an Urgent Warning for Primary Care

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General practice in England is at a tipping point. A recent study published in BMJ Open Journal highlights a startling reality: the number of GPs per 1,000 patients has fallen by 15% since 2013. As the number of GPs dwindles, other healthcare professionals are stepping in to fill the gap, but the consequences of this shift could be severe. 


A System Under Pressure

For patients, this reduction in GP availability is not just a statistic—it’s a tangible problem felt in everyday life. GPs can no longer see as many patients, waiting times for appointments are growing, and the quality of care may be compromised when complex cases are handled by less experienced staff.

 

While it’s encouraging to see an increase in non-GP roles, such as pharmacists and physician associates, GPs provide a unique and essential service.

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