Every fortnight Kevin writes a "Kev’s Column" for the Herald Express and you can read the latest edition (Published on Wednesday 9th December 2020) below:
Vaccine
Last week’s announcement a vaccine is ready to be used against Covid-19 is not only the light at the end of the tunnel for the most vulnerable who will shortly receive it, but for our whole bay getting back to normal.
The recommendations as to the first priorities for vaccination have been set by the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI), an independent expert advisory committee. The vaccine will not be available to buy privately, to ensure distribution is determined by clinical priorities, not the highest bidder.
The JCVI’s focus in the first phase of the Covid-19 vaccination programme is to reduce deaths and hospitalisations. Therefore, the priority list covers the groups which have represented 99% of the deaths and hospitalisations from Covid-19. It includes all aged over 50, and those between 16-50 who are clinically vulnerable or have underlying health conditions which put them at higher risk, plus care home workers and frontline healthcare staff.
The JCVI’s focus is the right one. It will protect our NHS, plus large swathes of Torbay residents who could face the worst impacts of Covid-19 if infected. Some will argue other groups should be added, but this must be for medical experts to consider when deciding who a second phase of the vaccination programme will cover.
Keeping Focussed
Whilst the vaccination programme starting is great news, it will still be some time before it starts to have a major impact on new case numbers, we therefore cannot let up the fight against this virus and allow it to have a final significant surge.
The recent falls in case numbers across our region are encouraging and a tribute to all the efforts of our NHS and Social Care teams, plus residents doing their bit to help by following the guidelines.
Combined with falling numbers of patients in our local hospitals this brings closer a tantalising prospect of Devon potentially moving into Tier 1 at the review next week. I want to see this happen, hence we must keep the focus on beating this virus over the next week.
Live Animal Exports
Many animals currently face long journeys across Europe simply to be slaughtered at the end of them.
European Single Market rules meant this practice could not be banned, but as the transition period ends the Government has launched a consultation on changing the law. Alongside this are proposals to amend wider rules around transport of animals to reflect the latest scientific evidence on how best to protect animal welfare during transport.
This is a welcome move which will improve welfare, whilst not unduly hindering domestic producers who already adhere to high standards, I hope it will be implemented at the earliest opportunity.
Surgery Times
Following the end of national restrictions, I have restarted my regular advice surgeries, although due to current public health guidance they must be by appointment only.
My next surgeries will be on Friday 11th December from 3pm till 5pm and Saturday 19th December from 11am till 1pm, both at 5-7 East St, Torquay, TQ2 5SD. Social distancing measures will be in place and a face covering must be worn unless you have a medical condition which means you cannot wear one.
To book an appointment you can email me at [email protected] or telephone 01803 214989.
