Winter bugs, why don’t they ever take a holiday? Because they don’t want to stop spreading the news! 🦠

Winter Viruses: Protecting Your Health During the Cold Season

Winter brings chilly mornings, cosy nights, and unfortunately, an increased risk of falling ill due to seasonal viruses. With colder weather driving us indoors and closer together, viruses like the common cold, flu, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) thrive. However, understanding these viruses and taking preventive measures can help you stay healthy throughout the season.

Common Winter Viruses

During winter, the most common illnesses include:

• Common Cold: Caused by various viruses, including rhinoviruses, the cold often leads to sneezing, a sore throat, and mild fatigue.

• Influenza (Flu): A more severe illness that can cause high fever, body aches, fatigue, and respiratory symptoms.

• RSV: Particularly concerning for young children and the elderly, RSV can lead to bronchiolitis or pneumonia in severe cases.

• Norovirus: Also known as the winter vomiting bug, this highly contagious virus can cause sudden vomiting and diarrhoea.

Why Are Viruses More Prevalent in Winter?

There are several reasons why viruses spread more during winter. Firstly, cold air weakens the mucous membranes in our nose and throat, reducing their ability to block infections. Secondly, people tend to stay indoors in poorly ventilated spaces, increasing the chance of virus transmission. Lastly, low humidity allows viruses to survive longer in the air.

Tips to Prevent Winter Illnesses

While it’s impossible to avoid exposure to viruses entirely, the following measures can significantly reduce your risk:

1. Practise Good Hygiene: Regularly wash your hands with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds, especially after coughing, sneezing, or touching shared surfaces. Avoid touching your face, as this is a common way for viruses to enter the body.

2. Get Vaccinated: The annual flu vaccine is highly effective in reducing the severity of influenza. Vaccination is particularly crucial for vulnerable groups such as the elderly, pregnant women, and individuals with chronic health conditions.

3. Boost Your Immune System: Maintain a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, which are high in immune-boosting vitamins. Regular exercise, adequate sleep, and managing stress can also keep your immune defences strong.

4. Stay Warm: Keeping warm reduces stress on your body, which can help your immune system function optimally. Layer your clothing and heat your home to a comfortable temperature.

5. Practise Respiratory Etiquette: Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your elbow when coughing or sneezing to prevent spreading germs to others.

6. Avoid Close Contact: If someone around you is unwell, maintain distance where possible. Similarly, stay home if you’re feeling under the weather to protect others.

7. Ventilate Indoor Spaces: Proper ventilation reduces the concentration of airborne viruses. Open windows for short periods, even in cold weather, to let fresh air circulate.

Final Thoughts

Winter viruses may be a regular occurrence, but with vigilance and healthy habits, you can minimise your risk of falling ill. Prioritising hygiene, vaccination, and a robust immune system not only helps protect you but also reduces the spread of illnesses within your community. By taking these simple steps, you can make the most of the winter season without the sniffles and sneezes. If you do become unwell and need a note for work or your educational establishment, do please consider getting in touch with DrNote to help you with certification.

Movember. More than a 'tache.

Movember: Growing Awareness for Men’s Health

Every November, a unique movement sweeps across the globe, turning upper lips into talking points. Known as Movember, this campaign encourages men to grow moustaches throughout the month to spark conversations and raise awareness for crucial men’s health issues, including prostate cancer, testicular cancer, mental health, and suicide prevention. Movember is more than just a quirky tradition; it is a powerful initiative aimed at addressing the health challenges disproportionately affecting men.

The Origins of Movember

Movember began in 2003 in Melbourne, Australia, when two friends jokingly revived the moustache as a fashion statement. Realising the potential for their facial hair to serve a greater purpose, they decided to use it to promote men’s health awareness. Since then, the Movember Foundation has grown into a global charity, funding over 1,250 health projects worldwide. Its distinctive approach—a blend of humour, visibility, and activism—has transformed how we discuss men’s health issues.

Prostate Cancer Awareness

Prostate cancer is the most common cancer among men, with one in eight men in the UK being diagnosed during their lifetime. The Movember campaign aims to shine a spotlight on the importance of early detection and regular screening. Men over 50—or 45 for those with a family history—are encouraged to speak to their GPs about a PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) test. Early diagnosis can make a significant difference, often enabling effective treatment and improved survival rates.

Testicular Cancer Awareness

Although testicular cancer primarily affects younger men aged 15–40, it often remains a taboo topic. Movember aims to break this silence by encouraging men to self-examine and seek medical advice if they notice any changes, such as lumps or swelling. Through awareness and education, the campaign helps reduce stigma and ensures that men feel empowered to take control of their health.

Mental Health and Suicide Prevention

Men’s mental health is a critical but often overlooked aspect of overall wellbeing. Stigma surrounding emotional vulnerability and traditional notions of masculinity frequently discourage men from seeking help. Alarmingly, suicide is the leading cause of death for men under 50 in the UK, with three out of four suicides being male. Movember tackles these issues by promoting open dialogue and funding programmes that provide resources for men struggling with depression, anxiety, or other mental health challenges.

One of Movember’s key messages is that “it’s okay not to be okay.” By fostering a culture of openness, the campaign encourages men to check in on their friends, seek professional help when needed, and adopt healthier coping strategies.

How to Get Involved

Participating in Movember is simple. Men can grow a moustache, while women and men alike can commit to “Move for Movember” by running or walking 60 kilometres over the month—representing the 60 men lost to suicide every hour worldwide. Others choose to organise fundraising events or donate to support the cause.

The Impact of Movember

Since its inception, Movember has raised over £600 million globally, funding life-saving research, support programmes, and public health initiatives. The campaign has not only increased awareness but also changed societal attitudes towards men’s health, encouraging proactive self-care and collective responsibility.

The Moustache as a Symbol

A moustache may seem like a small gesture, but its symbolic power is immense. Each conversation sparked by a moustache helps chip away at the stigma surrounding men’s health, reminding us that these issues deserve attention and action.

This Movember, whether you’re growing a ‘Mo,’ moving for the cause, or simply starting a conversation, remember: small actions can lead to significant change. Together, we can help men live healthier, longer, and more fulfilling lives.

Flying When Pregnant: Tips for a Comfortable and Safe Journey

Flying in Pregnancy is from the outside quite an easy decision however each individual pregnancy needs to be considered individually. DrNote has experienced qualified GPs who have worked in the NHS and private sector for many years and are skilled in calculating if you and your baby are able to fly safely.There are a number of factors that need to be considered, and these are listed here: https://www.drnote.co.uk/shop/p/pregnancy-fit-to-travel-letter. It is important for your own health and that of your baby to answer the questions fully and honestly.

Flying while pregnant can be an exciting, though sometimes nerve-wracking, experience. Whether you're planning a last holiday before your baby arrives or travelling for work, it's entirely possible to fly safely and comfortably while expecting. Here are some key tips and considerations for a smooth journey when flying during pregnancy.

1. Timing Your Trip

Most airlines and medical professionals agree that the best time to fly during pregnancy is in the second trimester (weeks 14 to 28). By this stage, morning sickness has usually subsided, and the risk of complications like miscarriage or preterm labour is lower. After 36 weeks, airlines often restrict travel due to the risk of labour starting mid-flight. If you’re carrying multiples or have any pregnancy-related complications, it’s best to consult your doctor before making travel plans, as they may advise avoiding flights altogether.

2. Get Medical Clearance

Always check with your healthcare provider before flying. They can provide guidance based on your specific situation and may offer practical advice to make your journey more comfortable. Some airlines also require a letter from your doctor, particularly if you're beyond 28 weeks. DrNote is happy to provide this service for you. This letter should include your due date and confirm that you're fit to fly, so it's worth having one prepared just in case.

3. Choose the Right Seat

When booking your flight, try to secure an aisle seat, ideally close to the bathroom. This makes it easier to move around and take frequent bathroom breaks – both of which are particularly important during pregnancy. Avoid seats near the bulkhead (where there is often no under-seat storage), so you can keep your bag within reach, making it easy to access snacks, water, or anything else you might need during the flight.

4. Stay Hydrated and Move Regularly

Pregnant women are more prone to dehydration, especially on flights where cabin air is dry. Aim to drink water regularly throughout the flight, and avoid caffeine and sugary drinks, which can increase dehydration. Additionally, sitting for extended periods can increase the risk of blood clots. Try to stand up and walk around every hour, even if it's just a short stroll up and down the aisle. Some simple seated leg exercises, like rotating your ankles and flexing your feet, can also help with circulation.

5. Pack Comfort Essentials

Bring a small travel pillow or inflatable neck support to make sitting more comfortable, especially on long-haul flights. Compression socks are another must-have, as they help prevent swelling in your legs and reduce the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Snacks are also essential – having a stash of nutritious, easy-to-digest foods will help keep your energy up and manage any sudden hunger pangs.

6. Prepare for Airport Security and Screening

Airport security screenings are generally safe during pregnancy. The scanners used for luggage and body screening do not emit harmful levels of radiation and are considered safe for pregnant travellers. However, if you have any concerns, you can ask for a pat-down screening instead.

7. Listen to Your Body

Flying can be exhausting, especially during pregnancy. Be mindful of your body’s signals, and don’t push yourself too hard. If you feel uncomfortable or unwell at any stage, seek assistance. Flight attendants are trained to handle medical situations and will be able to help if you need anything.

Final Thoughts

With the right preparations, flying during pregnancy can be a smooth experience. Always consult your healthcare provider before booking a flight, and follow these tips to make your journey as comfortable as possible. Embrace the adventure and take this as an opportunity for a peaceful getaway before the arrival of your little one!

Can Chickenpox fly?

Chickenpox is a highly contagious viral infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus (VZV). It is characterised by an itchy skin rash with red spots and fluid-filled blisters, which eventually scab over. The illness often starts with flu-like symptoms, such as fever, fatigue, and headache, followed by the appearance of the rash.

Chickenpox is most common in children, but it can also affect adults, and its symptoms tend to be more severe in adults. After a person recovers from chickenpox, the virus remains dormant in their body and can reactivate later in life, causing shingles (herpes zoster).

If you or someone you know has chickenpox, flying might not be recommended due to the highly contagious nature of the virus. Here are some key points to consider:

1. Contagious Period: Chickenpox is most contagious from 1-2 days before the rash appears until all the blisters have crusted over, which usually takes about 5-7 days. During this time, the risk of spreading the virus to others is high.

2. Airline Policies: Most airlines have strict policies about flying with chickenpox. They may require a medical certificate confirming that the person is no longer contagious. It's essential to check with the airline in advance about their specific requirements.

3. Risk to Other Passengers: People with chickenpox can spread the virus through airborne droplets (from coughing or sneezing) and by direct contact with the rash. It's especially risky for pregnant women, newborns, and people with weakened immune systems.

4. Travel Insurance: If you have chickenpox and cannot travel, having travel insurance that covers medical conditions might help cover the costs of rebooking flights or other travel arrangements.

We recommend you consult with a healthcare professional at DrNote for a note to cover your journey for your airline and if it is safe to travel after having chickenpox. Generally, flying should be avoided until all blisters have dried and crusted over.

Am I fit or unfit to fly?

Why do I need a letter to travel? People often pay for "fit to fly" letters because they serve as a medical certificate confirming that an individual is healthy and fit to travel. These letters are required in certain situations, such as:

Airline or Destination Requirements: Some airlines or countries have strict health guidelines and may require a fit to fly letter, especially if the traveller has a medical condition, is pregnant, or has recently recovered from an illness. The letter acts as proof that the individual is not a risk to themselves or others during the flight.

Insurance Purposes: In case of a medical emergency during travel, having a fit to fly letter can be useful for insurance claims. It shows that a healthcare professional deemed the individual fit to travel, which might prevent disputes with insurance providers.

COVID-19 or Other Contagious Illnesses: During the COVID-19 pandemic and other health crises, some countries and airlines required proof that passengers were not contagious. Even as the pandemic has subsided, certain destinations may still require a fit to fly certificate to prevent the spread of infectious diseases.

Minimising Travel Disruptions: A fit to fly letter can help travellers avoid delays or being denied boarding due to concerns about their health. It reassures airline staff that the passenger has been medically cleared to travel.

Professional Assurance: Paying for a letter from a registered healthcare professional provides an official and credible document. It carries more weight than a self-assessment or a non-certified note, which is crucial when dealing with authorities, airlines, or border control.

Although the fit to fly letter comes at a cost, people pay for it to ensure they meet travel requirements and avoid complications that could disrupt their journey. DrNote offers a seamless and swift service to take care of this all.

Sick or Fit notes?

Welcome to a series of blogs that have been created by our medical team. We hope you find them useful.

Sick notes, doctors are now supposed to call them "fit notes", but as a patient requires them usually when "sick", they are still colloquially known as "sick notes". How confusing; a bit like navigating medical healthcare, as a doctor it seemed outwardly quite simple, book an appointment and then see the health care professional and get the outcome you hoped or that the professional thought was best for you. Right? Well, not quite.

Now, as a patient, I have found myself baffled by the process of NHS healthcare. I'm not blaming the professionals or admin team that are running the service, it's just in my opinion, the NHS is such a huge, unwieldy vessel, that efficiency and service have, despite best intentions, been left far behind as a distant memory. I am sadly not blessed with the answers, but despite whatever your beliefs about the NHS, it is clear that the system needs support, and by using services like DrNote to facilitate this, can only be of help.

The system of General Practice in the NHS is utterly overwhelmed, as of November 2023, NHS General Practice got paid £164.64 per year per registered patient, about 45 pence per person per day! There's not a whole lot you can do for that in the real world. This is not a political posting, but merely a thought provoking page, and whilst clearly there are folk out there who cannot afford to pay for a private service, in my mind it seems that those who can afford to use a private service may feel that it enables them to both help themselves, and help the wider NHS and public by removing pressures from a bursting-at-the-seams NHS.