Health protection
What does the Public Health team do to protect health?
The Council Public Health team works in partnership with the NHS and other health system providers to protect the health of Island residents.
Our Health Protection work includes vaccination and screening programmes, infectious disease prevention and response to emergencies that could have an impact on public health.
Vaccination
Apart from clean water, vaccination is the most important public health intervention in the world. The NHS vaccination guide can help you understand the vaccines offered in the UK.
On the Isle of Wight, there are lots of health professionals who are involved in vaccination. They include
- GPs
- practice nurses
- midwives
- health visitors
- school nurses
- community pharmacists
You can speak to them for advice relating to vaccinations for you or your family. Eligibility and need is based on age and individual risk factors, including
- medical history - some illnesses make you more vulnerable to infection
- pregnancy - vaccines are the best way to protect newborns and mums from disease
- occupation - especially if you have more contact with vulnerable people
- travel plans - different countries have different recommendations - check your destination at NHS Travel vaccination advice
For the routine vaccination schedule visit the NHS Choices website
Another comprehensive source of information is the Healthier Together website.
This covers all vaccinations for children and young people as well as other aspects around children’s health and wellbeing.
Screening
Screening is a way of identifying apparently healthy people who may have an increased risk of a particular condition. This means that early treatment can be offered, or information given to help you make informed decisions.
The NHS screening guide provides information and links to all screening programmes in England
Screening includes
- screening in pregnancy
- screening for newborn babies
- diabetic eye screening
- cervical screening (25-64)
- breast cancer screening (50-70)
- bowel cancer screening (50-74)
- abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) screening (men aged 65)
The type of programme offered to you will depend on your age, sex, or whether you have a long-term condition such as diabetes.
Screening is provided free by the NHS, either via your GP or at the screening hub at St Mary’s hospital. You will normally be sent an invitation through the NHS App, by text, or by letter when it is time to book your screening appointment.
Talk to your GP if you have any concerns about your health or have any questions about screening you are eligible for.
Infectious disease prevention
The Public Health team
- provides advice, in line with national or local guidance, to various settings and the public on infection prevention and control (IPC)
- supports campaigns promoting infection prevention and control activities
- works with the NHS and UK Health Security Agency to prepare and respond to infectious disease outbreaks
Everybody has a role in reducing the spread of infections through simple actions and behaviours, such as handwashing.
For specific guidance on how to prevent respiratory infections spreading, see information for the public Living Safely with COVID-19
Setting-specific guidance available for
Emergency response
The Public Heath Team work with Emergency Management to co-produce Council plans to prepare for incidents such as adverse weather and pandemics. These aim to coordinate a system-wide response to minimise the public health impact of the Island’s residents.
Cold weather, heatwaves and flooding can have serious impacts for everyone. The elderly, young babies and people with certain medical conditions are more at risk. Advice and guidance during periods of adverse weather, to prevent the physical and psychological effects, are available by using the links below