The nursing taking place today and tomorrow, 15 and 16 December 2022, is set to disrupt services across the country, including those provided at Leicestershire and Rutland hospitals.

On 15 and 16 December, members of the Royal College of Nursing are striking after they were unable to secure the 19% pay increase hoped for by union members. 

Under trade union laws, life-preserving care will continue to be provided during the strike, but day-to-day care will be impacted and appointments, including cancer treatment and more routine procedures, cancelled. 

Today, some services may be affected due to strike action.Please continue to come forward for NHS care, if you need medical help use 111 online, and in emergencies, please call 999. pic.twitter.com/iIuqaYp4OE

— NHS (@NHSuk) December 15, 2022

This comes amid a rise in scarlet fever cases nationally, with 4 suspected cases reported in the South Kesteven District.

Scarlet fever is caused by Strep A and case numbers are being revealed in the weekly report of the Statutory Notifications of Infectious Diseases.

Most strep A infections are mild and easily treated, but some are more serious.Visit the NHS website to learn more about symptoms to look out for, when to seek medical help and what to do in an emergency: https://t.co/SRcdlU9QKS#StrepA #GroupAStrep pic.twitter.com/08ifqHkD2v

— NHS (@NHSuk) December 8, 2022

Strep A, is a common bacterium which generally causes mild illnesses, but the UK has reported a small number of deaths in recent weeks due to the bacterium entering the bloodstream.