The Blackwater Patients Page - Maldon

13/05/2026

Tuesday 19th May 2026

Please be advised that the surgery and dispensary will be closed on Tuesday 19th May from 12pm for staff training. The community pharmacy will remain open.

Should you require medical assistance during this time, please dial 111 or visit www.111.nhs.uk or www.pharmacyfirst.co.uk In the event of an emergency call 999. The surgery will reopen on Wednesday 20th May at 8.00am.

We’re here to help you make health and wellness achievable each day. Discover our range of feminine care products and take control of your daily routine.

12/05/2026

12/05/2026

Important videos regarding GP's appointment in Essex. Please watch the Video below.

12/05/2026

Important Video regarding GP's appointments in Essex

04/02/2026

World Cancer Day – 4th of February, advice and Support for Patients and Families (UK)

World Cancer Day is an opportunity to raise awareness, encourage early diagnosis, and remind everyone that help and support are available at every stage of the cancer journey.

If you notice persistent or unexplained symptoms such as a new lump, unexplained weight loss, ongoing pain, changes in bowel habits, unexplained bleeding, or a cough that doesn’t go away, please do not ignore them. Early presentation to your GP can make a real difference.

For those living with cancer, you are not alone. Support is available not only for medical treatment, but also for emotional wellbeing, pain control, fatigue, nutrition, and mental health. Your GP, cancer nurse specialists, and community teams work closely together to provide holistic care tailored to your needs.

Family members and carers also play a vital role and should seek support when needed. Caring can be demanding, and help is available for carers too.

We encourage everyone to:

Attend screening programmes when invited (breast, cervical, bowel)

Adopt a healthy lifestyle: stop smoking, limit alcohol, stay active, and maintain a balanced diet

Talk openly about concerns and seek advice early

If you are worried about symptoms, coping with a diagnosis, or supporting someone with cancer, please contact your GP at Blackawater Medical Centre . We can guide you to the right investigations, treatments, and local or national support services.

Together, through awareness, early action, and compassionate care, we can make a meaningful difference.

Dr Geranmayeh

06/01/2026

Chickenpox (Varicella) vaccine – NHS information

From January 2026, the chickenpox (varicella) vaccine is available on the NHS as part of the routine childhood immunisation programme.

What vaccine is given?

The vaccine is given as a combined MMRV vaccine, which protects against:

Measles

Mumps

Rubella

Chickenpox (varicella)

When is it given?

Children are offered two doses:

First dose at 12 months of age

Second dose at 18 months of age

This provides long-term protection against chickenpox and its complications.

Catch-up programme

A catch-up programme is also being introduced for older pre-school children who have not previously had chickenpox and have not been vaccinated.

Eligible children will be offered the vaccine through the NHS. Parents and carers will be contacted by the practice if their child is eligible, or they may be invited during routine appointments.

Why is the vaccine important?

Chickenpox is usually mild but can sometimes cause serious complications such as:

Skin infections

Pneumonia

Brain inflammation (encephalitis)

Vaccination helps protect your child and reduces the spread of infection in the community.

How is the vaccine given?

As a single injection into the arm or thigh

Given at the same appointment as other routine childhood vaccinations

Is the vaccine safe?

Yes. The MMRV vaccine has been used safely in many countries for many years.
Common side effects are mild and may include:

Soreness at the injection site

Mild fever

A mild rash

Serious side effects are very rare.

Who should not have the vaccine?

The vaccine may not be suitable if your child:

Has a severely weakened immune system

Has had a severe allergic reaction to a previous vaccine

Please tell the nurse or doctor if this applies.

Dr Geranmayeh