High levels of seasonal illness, including flu, and vomiting and diarrhoea bugs, mean ambulances, hospitals, GP surgeries and other NHS services in the South West can come under severe pressure at this time of year. People across the region are being asked to help by continuing to choose the right service for their needs and […]

The NHS in the South West is preparing for another round of industrial action by resident doctors, who are due to strike from 7am tomorrow (Wednesday) until 7am on Monday 22 December. Plans are in place to maintain services as far as possible at near-normal levels, to minimise disruption for patients. The key advice to […]

NHS bosses in the South West have issued a last chance call for people to get their flu jab to be protected ahead of the festive holidays, as flu hospitalisations in the region surge by three quarters (76%) in just one week. Latest data* shows the number of people in the South West in hospital […]

The NHS in the South West is encouraging all eligible people to get their winter flu vaccine in the lead up to the Christmas period – and is making it easier than ever to find out where clinics are in your local area. The country-wide vaccination drive kicks off this weekend as those eligible for […]

As temperatures drop and winter weather sets in, it’s easier to pick up bugs and viruses that could leave you feeling miserable over the festive period. Cold and damp conditions, ice, snow and high winds can all make existing health problems worse, leave you more vulnerable to respiratory illnesses, and increase your risk of slips […]

The NHS in the South West is preparing for another round of industrial action by resident doctors, who are due to strike from 7am tomorrow (Friday) until 7am on Wednesday 19 November. Plans are in place to maintain services at near-normal levels, to minimise disruption for patients. The key advice to the people across the […]

17 November is Cervical Cancer Elimination Day of Action and this year the NHS in the South West is inviting the public to get involved and support the regions commitment to eliminate cervical cancer by 2040.   Proportionally more people being diagnosed with cervical cancer in the South West when compared to the national rate of […]

With winter only a few weeks away, the South West’s top health bosses are warning people to get important protection from the flu virus as soon as possible, with cases in the region increasing. Eligible people, especially under 65s with long term health conditions, are being urged to come forward now so they are fully […]

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and this year the NHS in the South West has teamed up with Louise Butcher, The Topless Runner, to raise awareness around breast cancer. Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer in the UK. It is more common in women, but anyone can get breast cancer as […]

The NHS in the South West is thanking those who have already received their flu vaccine and urging those eligible to come forward as levels of flu continue to rise. So far in the region, over 1.2 million flu vaccinations have been administered, but it is important those who are eligible still come forward for […]