COVID-19 Coronavirus, H5N1 Avian Flu, Disease X and other virus UK and World News Update 20th December 2024

COVID-19 Coronavirus, H5N1 Avian Flu, Disease X and other virus UK and World News Update 20th December 2024

"We are currently seeing more norovirus cases than in any season since we started our current reporting system."

UK Health Security Agency (HSA)

Norovirus is a tummy bug that can be nasty. Always wash hands before touching food, don't cook for others if you are ill, wash soiled bedding and clothes at 60º and as always, stay home if you are ill. 

UK HSA VirusWatch:

Flu activity has increased and is now at medium levels.  

COVID19 activity decreased across all indicators and remains at baseline levels. 

RSV activity decreased across most indicators and we are seeing less cases.

11,511 deaths were registered in England and Wales, week ending 6 Dec 2024 (Week 49):

· 8.0% lower than the expected number (998 fewer deaths)

· 14.5% involved influenza or pneumonia (1,671 deaths)

· 1.0% involved COVID19 (118 deaths)

UK public are being asked to only go to A&E at hospital if you really need to. If in doubt or you've got plenty of time to think about it, call 111 and get further advice. They will triage over the phone and send you for the correct help. If someone is seriously ill or injured, deteriorating rapidly, shows signs of stroke or heart attack, or a life is in danger, call 999 as an emergency. 

Flint: Treasure Of Oblivion Strategy Adventure RPG Review (Preview Game Code Sent For Review) Age 16+ on PS5, Steam, XBox, Switch

Flint: Treasure Of Oblivion is released today by Savage Level, and we were invited to take a preview look over the weekend. Available on Steam, PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch and X Box (Series X and Series S), Flint: Treasure Of Oblivion is a single player strategy adventure RPG, where you take the role of Captain Flint - high seas pirate on the search for a mysterious treasure. 

Action plays out through an isometric (almost overhead) view, as Flint, Billy Bones and the rest of the crew navigate a really varied 3D environment. You can interact with scenery and objects, solving puzzles, picking up items and defeating enemies to make your way through the game. 

COVID-19 Coronavirus and other virus including HPAI H5N1 and Disease X UK and World News Update 13th December 2024

 COVID-19 Coronavirus and other virus UK and World News Update 13th December 2024

World COVID Statistics: 776,947,553 officially reported cases and 7,076,993 losses of life.

The world is still officially losing around 500 people to COVID each week, despite only 102 countries still reporting regular figures to the World Health Organisation. 

“We cannot talk about COVID in the past tense.

It’s still with us, it still causes acute disease and Long COVID, and it still kills.

The world might want to forget about COVID-19, but we cannot afford to.”

Dr Tedros, Head of WHO, at Wednesday's media briefing. 

This time 5 years ago, the first severely ill patients in Wuhan, China, were about to be hospitalised. 

Symptom onset for patient A was 1st December 2019, with 3 more patients by 10th December, and first hospitalisations around 17th. 

"On that first confirmed case, none of his family members developed fever or any respiratory symptoms. He had not been to the Huanan seafood market and also no epidemiological link could be found between the first patient and later cases.

Chinese media later reported that there were earlier suspected infectections, going back to 17 November. Authorities did not publicly accept there was human-to-human transmission of the virus until 21 January."

Jim Reed, BBC Health Reporter. 

5 years people... We all having been living a pandemic for 5 years. 

 

Stocking Stuffers for the Homebody: Luxe Pyjamas and More (Brand Collaboration)

As the holiday season draws near, gift-giving is on everyone's mind. Whether you're shopping for a loved one, or a friend, or treating yourself to something special, selecting the perfect gift can often pose a challenge. If you're shopping for a self-proclaimed homebody, someone who enjoys the comforts of home more than the hustle and bustle of the outside world, we have a treat for you. In this article, we present a collection of stocking stuffers for the homebody: luxe pyjamas and more.

Matching Lounge Wear Sets

Among the multitude of gift options available today, one stands out for its cosy appeal: matching lounge wear sets. Nestled comfortably between casual and chic, these sets consist of plush, comfortable fabrics designed to provide the ultimate at-home relaxation experience. High-quality lounge wear can make even the simplest of activities, such as reading a book or watching a movie, feels luxurious and indulgent. To treat your homebody to an extra dose of comfort, consider gifting them a matching lounge wear set made of luxurious materials like silk or snug cashmere.

Pyjamas: A Homebody Essential

When it comes to luxe pyjamas, the options are almost endless. From thermal flannel sets perfect for the colder months to lightweight silk options for those warmer nights, you're sure to find the perfect pair to suit any personal style. More than just sleepwear, pyjamas can also act as daywear for those days when your loved one just wants to cuddle up on the couch or work from home in complete comfort. Look for sets that are attractive and stylish while maintaining that all-important cosy element.

The Comfort of Slippers

For many homebodies, comfort is paramount, and there's no better way to ensure that than with a pair of cosy slippers. They go with anything, from pyjamas to comfy jeans, and are a staple of indoor wear that is a perfect stocking stuffer. For the ultimate gift-giving luxury, consider a sheepskin-lined pair that will keep their feet warm and snug during those winter months. If sheepskin isn't their style, other alternatives include a fun pair of novelty slippers or elegant velvet ones. With slippers, you can't go wrong as they always add a touch of enjoyment to one's home relaxation time.

Candles for Ambience

To add some atmospheric glow and pleasing aroma to their sanctuary, a well-chosen candle is a thoughtful gift to consider. The soft light from a candle adds a sense of tranquillity and calm to any room, perfect for de-stressing after a long day. With a variety of fragrances available, from soothing lavender to zingy citrus, you can choose one that best suits your personal preference to create a relaxing haven at home.

Throw Blankets: Warmth and Style

Nothing completes a cosy lounge setting like a soft throw blanket. Ideal for curling up on the couch or bed, a throw blanket provides both warmth and a decorative touch. A chunky knitted option can add texture and a sense of luxury, while a heated electric blanket offers adjustable warmth for those extra chilly nights.

With these stocking stuffer ideas, giving the homebody in your life a gift they'll adore won't feel quite as daunting. From matching loungewear sets to cosy slippers and atmospheric candles, each option will add a little more comfort and joy to their sanctuary. Ultimately, the best gifts are those that show your understanding and appreciation for the receiver's personal taste and lifestyle, and for a homebody, it all comes down to the pursuit of comfort and relaxation.

The candles shown are from Potters Crouch. They are vegan and cruelty-free, and each last up to 50 hours. I first reviewed Potter's Crouch back in 2013...