Sexual Health:
We recognise that patients embarking on a new sexual relationship may wish to have a sexual health screen. We recommend a half-hour consultation at which we will check for Chlamydia (by urine PCR), Gonorrhoea, HIV, Hepatitis B, Herpes Antigen, Syphilis and take a vaginal/urethral swab for culture, mycoplasma and ureaplasma. Most of these results will be available within three days but some e.g. Herpes may take five days).
Asian/Bird Flu: Severe form of Avian influenza or Bird flu H5N1 has affected poultry flocks and other birds in several Asian countries since 2003. So far 112 people have caught this infection, half of whom have died. In humans, influenza A is the source of most ordinary epidemics. Avian influenza or Bird flu is caused by influenza A. The current Bird flu H5N1 seems highly virulent amongst birds but can still only be spread from bird to bird or bird to human. The current virus is unable to spread from human to human. WHO believe that it is most likely that the virus will mutate soon to permit human to human transmission, thereby starting a pandemic amongst humans of a highly virulent influenza A.
What can be done: Currently there are strict EU and UK controls in place preventing the transmission of Bird flu to the UK, but migrating birds pose a distinct challenge.
Vaccine: There are several potential vaccines at various stages of testing and production for protecting humans from infection with Bird flu. Whether these will be suitable against a pandemic flu caused by H5N1 depends on how much the pandemic strain may have mutated and changed from the original H5N1 virus strain used to create the vaccine, and work on creating a vaccine can only begin once the new strain has been identified.
Anti-viral drugs: There is evidence that current H5N1 viruses are susceptible to the anti-viral drugs called neuraminidase inhibitors although not responsive to the alternative anti-viral amantadine. Two neuraminidase inhibitors are on the market, Tamiflu and Relenza. Both Tamiflu and Relenza are licensed for use in the early stages of flu, and are considered to reduce the severity and length of illness. In the event of a pandemic only Tamiflu is licensed for post exposure prophylaxis i.e. in individuals who are well but who have been exposed to others with flu.
What you can do now: Whilst it is likely that the current influenza vaccine will not be specifically effective against Avian flu, it makes obvious sense to remain as healthy as possible and to avoid the normal flu bugs. Flu immunisation is, therefore, recommended to all individuals, and particularly this year we are promoting flu immunisations to children who seem to be the most effective carriers of flu infections, and who should be most reliably immunised. There is also increasing evidence that pneumococcal vaccine should be offered and given to all individuals regardless of risk status.
Flu Vaccinations: Every winter many days are lost both at work and play through flu. Whilst flu is not usually dangerous it is certainly miserable both for the patient and their family! A simple flu “jab” only takes a few moments and can help you avoid this unpleasant illness. Call us now to book an appointment at time to suit you. For more information and frequently asked questions about having a flu vaccination click here.
HRT News:
Previous adverse publicity regarding hormone replacement therapy is now being modified in the light of recent re-evaluation of WHI data. Hormone replacement therapy remains the most effective treatment for patients with menopausal symptoms and health professionals are realising that the cardiovascular risks attributed to HRT users are not applicable to women, certainly in the first ten years post-menopause. Many women who have been denied HRT at the time of greatest need are now being encouraged to reconsider using hormones to help them cope with difficult symptoms. A personal risk benefit analysis will help identify the optimal treatment.
The role of testosterone has now been better evaluated and we are delighted to report the availability of a testosterone patch, which is specifically helpful in patients who have had a hysterectomy and who are suffering from lack of energy and lack of libido. This is a very welcome addition to our current range of therapies. Please make an appointment with Dr. Woyka for expert advice.
Osteoporosis: is a condition which is currently receiving widespread attention. It affects one in three women and one in ten men. Effective intervention can prevent fractures and disability. For advice please book a consultation with Dr. Woyka.
Women Doctors
Our team of doctors includes 3 Women GPs. For more information about each of the doctors visit Our Team page.
