Seven days in medicine: 6-12 January 2021
BMJ 2021; 372 doi: https://doi.org/10.1136/bmj.n82 (Published 14 January 2021) Cite this as: BMJ 2021;372:n82
Covid-19
Breastfeeding women can have vaccine after U turn
The UK’s Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency revised its guidance so that pregnant and breastfeeding women can receive the covid-19 vaccine. It also said that the vaccines could be considered in pregnancy but only when the potential benefits outweighed any potential risks to the mother and baby. “Women should discuss the benefits and risks of having the vaccine with their healthcare professional and reach a joint decision based on individual circumstances,” the agency advised. (Full story doi:10.1136/bmj.n64)
NHS staff demand better PPE for more procedures
Fresh Air NHS, a group of frontline healthcare workers, called for the UK and devolved governments to allow immediate access to filtering face piece class 3 (FFP3) masks for all staff working with patients with confirmed or suspected covid-19, as well as a review of personal protective equipment (PPE) guidance and better ventilation in hospitals. Current guidance says that FFP3 masks are required only in intensive care or with certain aerosol generating procedures. Campaigners say that higher grade PPE should be mandatory for a range of procedures, such as fitting nasogastric tubes. (Full story doi:10.1136/bmj.n30)
WHO investigators are blocked from entering China
A long awaited investigation led by the World Health Organization into the origins of the covid-19 pandemic remained on hold after scientists were unexpectedly refused entry to China. “I’m very disappointed with this news, given that two members have already begun …
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