Covid-19 in Merton:

4a) Situation Assessment Report

4b) Vaccination update

4c) Post Covid Syndrome

Situation Assessment Report

The Director of Public Health presented the situation assessment report.

The slides from this presentation are attached to these minutes.

The Director of Public Health reported infection rates were undulating, and now on the rise, so higher than those on the slides.

There was an increase of infections among young people, especially the under 10s, including in primary schools. The Director of Public Health thanked colleagues, school teachers and staff who had been brilliant in coping.  Hospitalisations were stable though hospitals remained very busy. The roll out of vaccination and boosters continued and work was taking place with schools and families to help address low vaccine intake among the 12 to 15 year old age group. It seems likely that boosters will be annual in the future and it is anticipated that confirmation on vaccination for the over 5 year olds would be received in January, following the US. Recommendations remained for mask wearing in communal areas, maintaining social distancing and regular washing of hands.

Health on the Highstreet

The Director of Public Health presented on Health on the Highstreet.

The slides from this presentation are attached to these minutes.

In response to questions on location, the Director of Public health advised that the initial approach would include pop up services. She welcomed the Board’s views on what should be contained in the pop up venue. Members welcomed the inclusive approach as a way of targeting all communities including those that are more disadvantaged. Services should be suited to individual and local community needs, for example: diabetes and healthy eating support; drug and alcohol rehabilitation services; digital health services; and, support for children and young people’s mental health. It could also be an opportunity for intergenerational work.

Health on the High Street is not intended to offer traditional GP services and there is scope across Merton’s seven libraries to develop hubs. The pop up is a pilot scheme and we will learn as it develops. It was noted that it would be of benefit if locations were visible on the high street, as feedback from Your Merton had emphasised resident’s wish to ‘reclaim their high streets’. The Director of Public Health confirmed that we keep an open mind and listen to local communities and involve them as much as possible, so that Health on the Highstreet responds to local need. Work is underway and is hoped that pilot projects will be realised in the new year.

Post COVID Syndrome

The Director of Public Health presented on Post COVID Syndrome (PCS).

The slides from this presentation are attached to these minutes.

In response to questions it was agreed that those people seeking support may not be fully representative of those experiencing PCS. It was questioned how the data is captured, and confirmed that currently only patients coming to the CLCH service are counted, though analysis is developing. It was agreed that further engagement and communication on PCS, and the support available, is important and that links to community groups and the network of Community Champions can help with this. The service model is evolving and we need to keep listening to continue to develop the approach, to what is likely to be a significant issue going forward