Wolverhampton to join nation in Covid-19 day of reflection
"We went through tough times, we were separated from friends and loved ones. Tragically, we lost friends and loved ones.""But our city's motto has always been Out of Darkness Cometh Light and, through those dark days, as a city, we came together."We found new heroes, we found ways to make each other smile but, most of all, we looked after our own."
'A sense of community'
Events will be taking place across the UK on Sunday to mark the milestone, on which then Prime Minister Boris Johnson held a press conference to confirm there had been four deaths in the UK and outline an action plan to tackle the virus.On Friday, a minute's silence was held across the Royal Wolverhampton and Walsall Healthcare NHS Trusts, as well as a short service being held at the New Cross Hospital's heart and lung centre.Rev Linford Davis, from the trust's chaplaincy service, said the effects of the pandemic would be felt across generations."People lost loved ones and colleagues, healthcare, social care and emergency response staff were separated from their own family and friends because of working arrangements at that time."But there were also moments that uplifted us all too."Rediscovering a sense of community is one example I bring to mind when so many generous people wanted to support those working through the pandemic in healthcare settings or simply through acts of kindness towards their own neighbours."
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Scottish Sun
8 hours ago
- Scottish Sun
Cases of killer virus that makes the body ‘fold in on itself' soaring in UK – after virus sparks pandemic fears in China
Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) CASES of a killer virus that can make the body 'fold in on itself' have increased in the UK, health chiefs have warned. There were 73 cases of chikungunya, a mosquito-borne disease that causes crippling joint pain, between January and June 2025 in England, Wales and Northern Ireland - the highest number ever recorded. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 5 Chikungunya is spread by the tiger mosquito Credit: Getty 5 This is over double the 27 cases reported during the same period in 2024, UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) data from its most recent travel-associated infection report suggests. The first cases of the oropouche have also been reported in the UK, which were all linked to travel from Brazil. The oropouche virus, dubbed 'sloth fever', circulates between primates, sloths, and birds in the wild - before it is occasionally passed to humans by midges and mosquitoes. It is primarily found in the Amazon basin in South America, but in recent years has started spreading more widely around the Americas. Health officials have since urged people to take precautions against insect bites while on holiday, as cases of both infections surge. Chikungunya spreads through the bite of infected Aedes mosquitoes, particularly Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus species. The virus is rarely deadly, but can cause serious disease spread by the in the very young, older people and those with other underlying illnesses. Typical symptoms include: Excruciating joint pain, which can leave victims hunched or folded over in agony High fever Headache Muscle aches Nausea Fatigue Red, bumpy rash Swelling in the joints, particularly the hands and feet In severe cases, the joint pain can mimic arthritis, leaving sufferers temporarily disabled for months or even years. Oropouche virus The illness mainly occurs in Africa and Asia, specifically southern Asia, although cases have been reported in Europe and parts of North America. However, this year there have been outbreaks in the Americas and Asia, with surges in China and the Indian Ocean islands of Reunion, Mayotte and Mauritius. The majority of UK cases reported this year were linked to travel to Sri Lanka, India and Mauritius. All cases were reported in England, primarily in London. There is currently no risk of onward transmission of chikungunya, as the two species of mosquito that transmit the disease are not established in the UK, UKHSA said. Meanwhile, more than 7,000 people have been struck down by the virus in China since June 2025, according to national health officials. 5 Patient with joint deformities of the hands 6 years after confirmed chikungunya virus (Credit: SehatHub) 5 Experts are urging people to use insect repellent while travelling Credit: Getty The majority of cases have been reported in Foshan, a city in southern Guangdong province, where officials have since rolled out Covid-style lockdowns in a desperate bid to stop the virus from spiralling out of control. At least 12 other cities in the southern Guangdong province have also reported infections. Hong Kong and Taiwan have also reported cases. Dr Philip Veal, consultant in public health at UKHSA, said: "Chikungunya can be a nasty disease and we're seeing a worrying increase in cases among travellers returning to the UK. "While this mosquito-borne infection is rarely fatal, it can cause severe joint and muscle pain, headaches, sensitivity to light and skin rashes. "Thankfully, symptoms usually improve within a few weeks, but joint pain may last for months or longer." He added: "It is essential to take precautions against mosquito bites when travelling. "Simple steps, such as using insect repellent, covering up your skin and sleeping under insecticide-treated bed nets can greatly reduce the risk." Two chikungunya vaccines are approved for use in the UK and are available to buy after an assessment at a private travel clinic. Meanwhile, three cases of oropouche virus have been detected by UKHSA. How concerning is this outbreak in China? Though tactics adopted by authorities in China hark back to lockdown measures five years ago, chikungunya "does not pose the same level of pandemic threat as a virus like Covid-19", according to Prof Tom Solomon, director of The Pandemic Institute in Liverpool. Dr César López-Camacho, from the Jenner Institute at the University of Oxford, added: 'It is extremely unlikely to cause a pandemic in the traditional sense, as chikungunya does not spread from person to person. "However, it can cause large regional outbreaks, especially when introduced to mosquito-rich, low-immunity settings, like what we are probably seeing in China." The risk to the UK from this outbreak is "currently low" as Aedes mosquitoes, which tend to carry the virus, aren't widespread here. "But we do need to watch closely, as climate change and global travel are expanding the range of these mosquitoes, and with it, the viruses they carry," Dr López-Camacho warned. 'It is also important that genetic sequencing of the virus in this outbreak is carried out. "In past outbreaks, mutations have helped chikungunya adapt to new mosquito species. "If the virus has changed, we need to ensure current vaccines still offer protection." Brits travelling to China amidst the outbreak should "be cautious", the disease expert said. He continued: "The US Centre for Disease Control and Prevention has issued a Level 2 travel alert, recommending travellers use insect repellent, wear long sleeves, and stay in screened or air-conditioned accommodation. "Travellers returning from affected areas who develop fever and joint pain should seek medical attention and mention their recent travel." People travelling to high-risk areas where outbreaks of the virus often occur can get vaccinated against chikungunya at a travel clinic. But Prof Solomon noted: "There have been reports of serious side effects in people over the age of 65. "As such, the vaccine is currently recommended for travellers under 65 visiting high-risk areas." The flu-like illness can cause a fever, headaches, joint pain, muscle pain, chills, nausea and vomiting. Officials urged anyone who becomes unwell with these symptoms after travel to affected areas, including parts of Central and South America and the Caribbean, to seek urgent medical advice. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), before late 2023, oropouche virus was mostly reported near the Amazon rainforest area. However, in 2024, Brazil, Bolivia, Colombia, Cuba, Guyana, Peru and the Dominican Republic reported locally transmitted cases of the disease. The UKHSA report also shows a rise in travel-associated cholera cases in the UK, with eight cases in the first half of the year compared to just one in 2024. Most cases were linked with travel to India and Ethiopia. There was also a 67 per cent decrease in the number of dengue cases reported in England, Wales and Northern Ireland from January to June. And there were just four cases of zika virus during the period, down from nine in 2024. 5 Oropouche virus, dubbed 'sloth fever', circulates between primates, sloths, and birds in the wild Credit: Dick van Duijn / Animal News Agency
Daily Mirror
8 hours ago
- Daily Mirror
Deadly chikungunya virus warning for Brit tourists as health experts 'worried' over surge in cases
The UKHSA has warned of record chikungunya cases in Brits returning from abroad. Find out where outbreaks are, how to protect yourself, and what vaccines are available. British holidaymakers are being urged to take extra precautions abroad after the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) reported a sharp rise in a dangerous mosquito-borne disease. New figures show that between January and June 2025, 73 cases of travel-associated chikungunya were recorded in England - almost three times the number in the same period last year (27 cases) and the highest on record for that timeframe. Most patients had recently returned from Sri Lanka, India or Mauritius, where outbreaks are currently under way. All cases were in England, with the majority reported in London. While the mosquitoes that spread chikungunya are not present in the UK - meaning there is no risk of local transmission - health officials say the rise is a clear warning to travellers. What is chikungunya? Chikungunya is a viral infection spread by two species of mosquito found mainly in tropical and subtropical climates. The illness usually begins with a sudden fever, often accompanied by severe joint pain. Other symptoms can include headaches, muscle aches, skin rashes and sensitivity to light. Most people recover in one to two weeks, but the joint pain can persist for months or even years. Up to 12 percent of patients still have symptoms three years later. Serious complications are rare, but in very young children, the elderly, or people with other medical conditions, the disease can be fatal. Get health warnings straight to your WhatsApp! As the world grapples with the threats of Covid-19, mpox and more, the Mirror has launched its very own Health & Wellbeing WhatsApp community where you'll get health warnings and news straight to your phone. We'll send you the latest breaking updates and exclusives all directly to your phone. Users must download or already have WhatsApp on their phones to join in. All you have to do to join is click on this link, select 'Join Chat' and you're in! We may also send you stories from other titles across the Reach group. We will also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose Exit group. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice. Dr Philip Veal, Consultant in Public Health at UKHSA, said: 'Chikungunya can be a nasty disease and we're seeing a worrying increase in cases among travellers returning to the UK. 'While this mosquito-borne infection is rarely fatal, it can cause severe joint and muscle pain, headaches, sensitivity to light and skin rashes. Thankfully symptoms usually improve within a few weeks, but joint pain may last for months or longer. 'It is essential to take precautions against mosquito bites when travelling. Simple steps, such as using insect repellent, covering up your skin and sleeping under insecticide-treated bed nets can greatly reduce the risk. 'Before you travel, check the Travel Health Pro Website for the latest advice on your destination. A chikungunya vaccine may also be considered for those travelling to higher-risk regions.' Vaccines Two chikungunya vaccines were recently approved for use in the UK. IXCHIQ® – for adults aged 18 to 59. Vimkunya® – for individuals aged 12 and over. Both are available privately through travel clinics after an assessment by a healthcare professional. Other diseases flagged by UKHSA The same UKHSA report also revealed three cases of Oropouche virus - the first ever recorded in the UK. All were linked to travel in Brazil, where there is an ongoing outbreak. Unlike chikungunya, Oropouche virus is mainly spread by midge bites, and symptoms include high fever, chills, headaches, joint pain and muscle aches. Pregnant travellers are advised to take particular care due to concerns about infection during pregnancy. There were also notable shifts in other travel-related illnesses in the first half of 2025: Cholera: Eight cases, compared with just one in 2024. Most involved travel to India and Ethiopia, where outbreaks are ongoing. Dengue fever: 161 cases, down 67% from 490 last year. Zika virus: Four cases, down from nine in 2024. Meningococcal serogroup W (MenW): Linked to travel for Hajj and Umrah in Saudi Arabia. Pilgrims are reminded they must have the MenACWY vaccine before travel. Prevention Health experts stress that preparation is key. Travellers should visit the Travel Health Pro website - supported by UKHSA - at least four to six weeks before departure. The site offers up-to-date information on health risks for destinations worldwide, along with advice on vaccines, insect bite prevention, and safe food and water consumption. When it comes to chikungunya specifically, protection against mosquito bites is vital: Apply insect repellent regularly, especially those containing DEET. Wear long-sleeved tops and trousers to cover exposed skin. Sleep under insecticide-treated nets in risk areas. Consider vaccination if visiting outbreak hotspots.
Daily Mirror
8 hours ago
- Daily Mirror
Six Oropouche symptoms easily mistaken for flu after deadly virus first found in UK
UKHSA confirms first UK cases of Oropouche virus in travellers from Brazil. With flu-like symptoms, experts warn holidaymakers to know the signs and take precautions British travellers are being urged to stay vigilant after the UK recorded its first-ever cases of Oropouche virus (OROV), a mosquito and midge-borne infection that can easily be mistaken for the flu. According to the latest UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) report, three cases of Oropouche were identified in travellers returning from Brazil between January and June 2025. While relatively rare, the virus has been spreading across parts of South and Central America and the Caribbean, with Brazil reporting the largest outbreaks. The infection typically causes high fever, chills, headache, joint pain, and muscle aches - symptoms that closely resemble common viral illnesses, making it easy to misdiagnose. It comes after the NHS warns mouth symptom could be life-shortening disease. READ MORE: Urgent warning issued as dogs and foxes die after eating 'poison' in Devon park Dr Philip Veal, Consultant in Public Health at UKHSA, stressed the importance of taking travel precautions. 'If a person becomes unwell with these symptoms following travel to affected areas, they should seek urgent medical advice,' he said. Pregnant travellers, in particular, are advised to be cautious due to recent concerns about Oropouche virus infection during pregnancy. Symptoms Fever or chills Severe headache Muscle aches or joint pain Nausea or vomiting Rash Diarrhoea Get health warnings straight to your WhatsApp! As the world grapples with the threats of Covid-19, mpox and more, the Mirror has launched its very own Health & Wellbeing WhatsApp community where you'll get health warnings and news straight to your phone. We'll send you the latest breaking updates and exclusives all directly to your phone. Users must download or already have WhatsApp on their phones to join in. All you have to do to join is click on this link, select 'Join Chat' and you're in! We may also send you stories from other titles across the Reach group. We will also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose Exit group. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice. The rise in Oropouche cases comes alongside other travel-related infections that UKHSA has been tracking. Chikungunya - a mosquito-borne virus causing sudden fever and debilitating joint pain - has seen a sharp increase, with 73 cases reported in England in the first half of 2025. Most affected travellers had returned from Sri Lanka, India, and Mauritius, where outbreaks continue. Although the UK's climate prevents local mosquitoes from transmitting the disease, severe symptoms can linger for months, particularly joint pain, which affects up to 12 percent of patients even three years after infection. For those planning trips to higher-risk regions, two chikungunya vaccines are now available in the UK: IXCHIQ® for adults aged 18 to 59 and Vimkunya® for individuals 12 and older. UKHSA recommended consulting a travel clinic to discuss suitability before travelling. The Travel-associated Infections report also highlights a worrying increase in cholera cases, rising from one case in 2024 to eight in the first half of 2025, largely linked to travel to India and Ethiopia. Dengue and Zika virus cases, by contrast, have fallen, with 161 dengue cases and just four Zika cases reported across England, Wales, and Northern Ireland during the same period. Meningococcal serogroup W (MenW) disease has also been noted among UK travellers, particularly those visiting Saudi Arabia for Umrah and Hajj. The potentially deadly infection can leave survivors with severe lifelong health complications, and vaccination with MenACWY is strongly advised for pilgrims and their close contacts. UKHSA recommends that travellers consult the Travel Health Pro website at least four to six weeks before departure. The site provides comprehensive advice on health risks worldwide, helping travellers take preventive measures such as vaccinations, mosquito bite avoidance, and timely medical guidance if symptoms appear.
