MEDICAL MATTERS

[Stanley]

And I'll believe him David....
But it is still a rising threat and putting strain on the NHS. I hope my flu vaccination works!
Later....07:00. Wes Streeten says that the number of flu patients could triple this next week as we approach what is usually reckoned to be the peak.

[Tizer]

This was mentioned in the general press at the start of December. This version is a bit more technical and less `hyped up', though it is a significant step forward in understanding how viruses infect our cells...
`Scientists capture flu viruses surfing into human cells in real time' Science Daily
Scientists have captured a never-before-seen, high-resolution look at influenza’s stealthy invasion of human cells, revealing that the cells aren’t just helpless victims. Using a groundbreaking imaging technique, researchers discovered that our cells actually reach out and “grab” the virus as it searches for the perfect entry point, surfing along the membrane....

[Stanley]

I know research helps to defend us but it's hard to see how this helps! Still, it's a wonderful achievement.

[Whyperion]

This was mentioned in the general press at the start of December. This version is a bit more technical and less `hyped up', though it is a significant step forward in understanding how viruses infect our cells...
`Scientists capture flu viruses surfing into human cells in real time' Science Daily
Scientists have captured a never-before-seen, high-resolution look at influenza’s stealthy invasion of human cells, revealing that the cells aren’t just helpless victims. Using a groundbreaking imaging technique, researchers discovered that our cells actually reach out and “grab” the virus as it searches for the perfect entry point, surfing along the membrane....

I am confused , are you saying that our cells are welcoming the flu virus ?
I think from previous virus vid (voiced by David Tennant and aired on the BBC - possibly a repeat) just before Covid went official pandemic - that some viruses have coatings/enzymes or other molecule keys that mimic desired nurients or other cell support things that are normally useful of proteins etc in the blood and elsewhere (lymph whatever) passing around the body. It is this "clone" chemical chains that make vaccines so difficult - knock out or create resistence to the wrong bit of the virus and you are creating auto immune or similar cell starvation issues doing as much , or more, harm than good

[PanBiker]

Well, after a bit of being passed from pillar to post, Sally has a resolution to her degenerating hip. Started with an appointment at Airedale, X-Ray at Skipton General then passed to Bunley General, then Accrington, she then got a referral to see a consultant at The Beardwood Hospital, (t'other side of Blackburn) which is Private but also does NHS patients. Consultant today had no reference so sent her for another X-Ray. It was on the screen when she got back to him, he offered steroid injections for the interim but said that it was a sure case for replacement. Waiting list is 9 - 12 months. She rejected the steroid treatment. He said to carry on with her gym work, swimming and walking. A good candidate as he could see that she was committed to keeping as mobile as she can.

[Wendyf]

Good news that she will be on the waiting list, it's a long wait though.

[Big Kev]

I went to the Beardwood for my cartilage repair, it's very nice. Private room and a nice bit of dinner

[Stanley]

I'm glad for Sally but also critical that the NHS can't do any better than this. Think of the number of times you have heard the mantra 'Safe in our hands', and this is the result...... Still I wish Sally all the best, who knows, there might be a cancellation!
(PS I would have rejected steroid treatment as well. Effective I know but there can be disturbing side effects.)

[PanBiker]

Well, a call this morning with an appointment date, 26th August, tentative I reckon.

[Tripps]

Thinking back I find that my second hip was done under the Coalition Government in 2014. There was a guaranteed eighteen week target then - which was met by going to the Nuffield private hospital . I don't think the Tory reign of terror with built in austerity had been invented then. It was done by the same surgeon who did the first one under the NHS. He said I was the ideal age - and has been proved right. Main benefit - private room to avoid the usual village idiot who inevitably is in the next bed, or opposite to me, and the best cheese omelette I've ever had. for tea.

[Whyperion]

met a chap today who cannot work (easily) been delayed too long and bone apparently too worn for work to be done on it.
So another person on PIP and UC

[Stanley]

Well Pharmacy are doing well. I go into Xmas with a full set of meds and confidence their text service will work in the New Year. Having a plan in place to July is the key I think.....