The Director of Public Health will provide the Commission with a verbal update.
Minutes:
The Director of Public Health gave a verbal presentation of the latest position of health protection. It was noted that:
· Tuberculosis (TB) rates had increased nationally in recent years although they were not as high as before. Changes were linked to demographic patterns, migration and links to countries with higher prevalence, including India. Leicester’s position was considered in comparison to other higher incidence areas.
· The renewed strategy for TB work following a recent workshop had explored late TB case identification, stigma reduction and improved engagement with GPs and communities on screening.
· One case of Measles recorded this year following a peak in 2023 and 2024. Members heard that coverage remained below the required ninety five percent and further work was needed to increase vaccine uptake.
· MMR coverage linked with wider vaccination rates and that less than half of school age children had received vaccines that prevented Cervical Cancer. Work was taking place with the ICB to address stigma and simplify consent processes for families and young people.
· Bowel cancer screenings work was taking place on reducing stigma through targeted campaigns and encouraging more people to complete the screening programme.
· The Covid vaccine uptake remained lower than expected. Covid outbreaks had recently peaked and were now reducing, and further seasonal waves were anticipated each year.
· Concerns were raised regarding flu due to current rates being aligned with previous years but with indications of an early season and greater variation of influenza A, which showed evidence of immune escape in some people.
In response to comments from Members, the following was noted:
· Members sought clarification on the procedure for isolating people with tuberculosis. It was explained that tuberculosis was not highly infectious and that close contact was usually limited to those living with or staying overnight with a patient. Latent tuberculosis was the most common form, which showed no symptoms and could not be passed on.
· Members enquired why Leicester’s rates were higher and where the main issues were arising. It was reported that Leicester’s position reflected other deprived areas with complex needs and vaccine hesitancy. Engagement work had not always been effective in the past but recent activity, including roving vaccination units in schools and places of worship, had achieved positive results. This approach required significant time and funding but had helped increase uptake and the approach would be to continue to support wider vaccination and screening programmes.
· Concerns were expressed about families being unable to see the same GP consistently. Members commented that the lack of continuity made it more difficult for people to ask questions or feel reassured about vaccinations or screening. It was noted that GP to patient ratios and vaccine apathy were also contributing to pressures on emergency departments.
· Members commented on partnership working and access to GP services. Confidence was expressed in the local public health team although concerns were raised about the need for stronger collaboration across organisations. GP access had been considered at the previous meeting and would return in January. Senior representatives from the ICB would continue to attend future meetings to provide updates on their functions and priorities.
· A query was raised on the progress in improving access to people’s usual GPs and whether the new service model would support this. Concerns were also expressed about how appointment processes within the ICB had been managed. It was agreed that all five health prevention items would be taken to the next meeting.
· Members discussed the low HPV vaccination rate which was described as particularly worrying. It was felt that this would lead to preventable cases of cervical cancer in the future due to limited awareness, low engagement with screening and delays in seeking medical help. The Commission was assured that HPV was a key prevention priority and that further work would be undertaken.
AGREED:
1. That the report be noted.
2. That the 5 Health Prevention items be taken to the next meeting.