Strep A – What you need to know

Group A streptococcus (GAS), also known as strep A is a
common bacteria which causes infections such as tonsillitis
and scarlet fever. These symptoms are usually mild and rarely
become serious.

Strep A can however cause a rare, and more serious infection
known as invasive Group A strep (iGAS). This happens when
GAS bacteria get into parts of the body where it is not normally
found, like the lungs or bloodstream.


For more information visit nhsinform.scot/strepA

Strep A and Scarlet Fever

We are aware there are rising concerns in the community about Group A streptococcus (Strep A) and Scarlet Fever.

The below links were posted on Public Health Scotland’s Twitter feed: 

Public Health Scotland website: 

https://www.publichealthscotland.scot/news/2022/december/group-a-strep-in-scotland/

You can also find out more information about Scarlet Fever on NHS Inform here: 

https://www.nhsinform.scot/…/infections…/scarlet-fever/

Boost Your Income

The cost of living is increasing rapidly and prices are rising at rates not seen since the 1970s, this includes energy bills, food, fuel and more.

There is lots of information online about what financial support people are entitled to and how to apply at www.eastlothian.gov.uk/boost.

East Lothian Council have also produced a guide to what’s available in our Cost of Living leaflet. This is a great guide to the financial help available for any household struggling with the cost of living increases. There’s no harm in checking.

CAB Haddington have a dedicated advisor helping us with this campaign, who can take people through a benefits check, and direct them to the income or other support that is available.

CAB Haddington can be contacted through benefits@haddingtoncab.org.uk and 01620 824471.

Everyone can check that they’re getting the financial support they’re entitled to. We particularly want to make sure that under-claimed benefits are claimed. These include:

  • Pension Credit (part of Universal Credit)
  • Council Tax Reduction
  • Child benefits (including Best Start Grants, Free School Meals, etc)

East Lothian Council knows that more people are entitled to these benefits than are currently claiming them. They want to change this, so if you think you or someone you know might be eligible – don’t delay in getting in touch.

The Cost of Living leaflet provides a useful overview of financial support available. Further tailored information will be available at www.eastlothian.gov.uk/boost.

A message from Dr Lavelle on her Retirement

Dear Patients,

As one of your GPs in Cromwell Harbour Practice, serving you and getting to know you and your families over the past 15 years has been a privilege.

I cannot think of a finer place to end my GP career of 33 years than in Dunbar Medical Centre. 

Please accept my sincere thank you and know how hugely touched I am by your kind words, lovely cards and thoughtful gifts received on my retirement; all totally unexpected but much appreciated.


I know how difficult the last 2+ years has been for you all. Thank you for your support of the practice and your understanding of the changes required during this time.

I would like to wish Dr Jo Holmes good luck as the new Cromwell Harbour GP Partner and also welcome our second Advanced Nurse Practitioner, Sue Bagley, to the practice.

All the very best for the future.

With my warmest gratitude,

Sincerely yours,

Del Lavelle