Timelines
How the main stories unfold, day after day: each timeline gathers the articles about one event, with a summary.
- Rise in XFG Covid variant cases and hospitalisations in the UK
Covid cases are rising in the UK, with hospitalisations up more than 400% in a month, and more than half of positive tests are a variant of XFG, nicknamed 'Stratus' and more recently 'American Covid'. The UKHSA has shared advice as the rate of positive results has increased, and the Evening Standard reports that cases and hospitalisations have increased sharply in London in recent weeks. Outlets have described the symptoms of the variant, which tests show is the dominant strain in the UK.
- NHS waiting list continues to rise despite record levels of care over the summer
The NHS waiting list continues to rise despite record levels of care over the summer. An NHS chief has warned of 'ominous' signs of winter pressure building on the health service.
- Major study launched to investigate rising bowel cancer cases in young adults
A major study has been launched to investigate the increasing number of bowel cancer cases among young adults. The study aims to understand the reasons behind this trend and requires the participation of 250,000 people. Experts are currently seeking participants to take part in the research. Recent reports indicate a concerning rise in cancer diagnoses among adults under 50, with increases noted in several types of cancer. The study is in its early stages, with recruitment efforts ongoing.
- Former Eljamel patient criticizes health board inquiry approach
Gillian Davidson, a former patient of Eljamel, has criticized the NHS Tayside for not adequately addressing the inquiry into the disgraced neurosurgeon. Davidson expressed concern that the health board failed to recognize the gravity of the situation. The inquiry is focused on the actions of the neurosurgeon, who has been discredited. The criticism highlights a perceived lack of understanding from the health board regarding the seriousness of the case.
- UK to provide free flu jabs to homeless people via NHS
The UK's NHS has expanded its free flu jab program to include homeless individuals for the first time. Mobile clinics and pop-up services will target areas with high numbers of people sleeping rough. The initiative follows reports of increased flu and Covid-19 cases in the Midlands. Officials emphasized the measure aims to protect vulnerable populations from severe infections.
- Cooper pledges public health approach to tackling ‘epidemic’ of domestic abuse
The Health Secretary has announced a public health strategy to address domestic abuse, describing it as an epidemic. The approach was outlined during a speech at the Labour Party conference in Liverpool. The strategy includes measures aimed at prevention and support for victims. The details of the plan were not fully specified in the reports. The initiative is part of ongoing efforts to combat domestic violence within the country.
- NHS Trust removes 10 people over Noah Woods data breach concerns
An NHS trust has suspended or removed 10 staff members following concerns about a data breach involving the medical records of Noah Woods, a three-year-old who disappeared in Suffolk and was later found dead in a pond. An urgent internal investigation has been launched by the East Suffolk and North Essex NHS Foundation Trust. The breach reportedly involved unauthorized access to the child's medical records. The trust has apologized for the incident. The situation is currently under investigation, with no final conclusions reached.
- Scientists uncover why meningitis B outbreak in Kent was able to spread ‘quickly and dramatically’
A meningitis B outbreak in Kent in March 2026 affected more than 20 young people, mostly students, and was linked to a nightclub in Canterbury. Scientists have identified that the outbreak was driven by a bacterial strain that acquired genes from harmless microbes, which may have contributed to its rapid and severe spread. The outbreak resulted in two deaths and led to 21 cases of invasive meningococcal disease within a week. Researchers have warned that similar outbreaks could occur again due to the genetic adaptability of the bacteria. The findings highlight the need for continued vigilance and public health measures to prevent future incidents.
- Extension of Martha’s Rule to A&Es to allow easier second opinions
Martha’s Rule, initially introduced in memory of 13-year-old Martha Mills, has been extended to all accident and emergency (A&E) departments in England. The rule allows patients to request a second medical opinion more easily, aiming to improve patient safety. The NHS has confirmed that the new rule will be implemented in all A&E departments and waiting rooms by March 2028. The measure follows the death of Martha Mills in 2021, which led to the original introduction of the rule. The expansion is intended to further protect vulnerable patients in emergency care settings.
- Researchers find prostate cancer treatment that is 'as effective as' surgery
A trial at the Royal Marsden found that, for some patients with prostate cancer, a highly targeted form of radiotherapy is as effective as removing the whole prostate, with fewer side effects, according to data published on 28 September.
- Drug-checking service aims to counter toxic supply entering Scotland – minister
A drug-checking service has been proposed in Scotland to help users identify the contents of their drug supplies. The initiative is aimed at addressing the issue of toxic substances entering the drug market. The service is expected to provide users with detailed information about what their supplies contain. The proposal has been announced by a minister, indicating government involvement in the effort. No further developments have been reported as of the latest information.