What's New

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has “removed” the self-isolation requirements for “contacts of a case infected with the Omicron variant”.

A national study for life-saving antiviral and antibody treatments to take at home has been launched for the over 50s and those with underlying health conditions, meaning those at highest risk from Covid-19 can receive direct treatment.

New regulations of the Mental Health Units (Use of Force) Act 2018 commenced on 7 December 2021, together with the publication of new statutory guidance to better protect patients in mental health settings from inappropriate use of force.

The UK’s Covid-19 alert level has been raised from Level 3 to Level 4, which indicates a high or rising level of transmission, for the first time since May.

New guidance relating to health and social care staff, published by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), has said that staff and managers in health and social care settings are now not exempt from self-isolation if they are in close contact with a “suspected or confirmed” Omicron Covid-19 case.

Temporary measures for the Covid-19 and influenza vaccine programmes could be extended or made permanent following a new consultation.

After the UK’s Chief Medical Officers decided to raise the Covid Alert Level from Level 3 to Level 4, Prime Minister Boris Johnson has issued a personal appeal calling for people to “get jabbed”.

We reported in September that the Government had a Plan B in the event that the NHS was likely to come under unsustainable pressure (see Winter plan for managing Covid).

Public Health England (PHE) has published campaign resources and guidance for use in primary care settings, to encourage patients to treat NHS staff with respect.

The Home Office has finalised new guidance confirming that police officers, and not GPs, will be legally liable for judging whether someone is able to possess a firearm and for checking medical records of applicants.