What's happened
Victims of the infected blood scandal in the UK are set to receive compensation as a final report on the scandal is due to be released. The scandal involved thousands being infected with viruses like HIV and hepatitis due to contaminated blood products in the 70s and 80s. Calls for criminal prosecutions have been made, and a compensation scheme has been extended to bereaved children. A class action lawsuit has been filed against AstraZeneca for rare side effects of their Covid jab. The UK government has agreed to establish a compensation scheme within three months for victims of the infected blood scandal.
Why it matters
The infected blood scandal in the UK has had a devastating impact on thousands of individuals and families, leading to calls for justice and compensation. The upcoming report and compensation plan are crucial steps towards addressing the injustices faced by the victims. The acknowledgment of the harm caused by contaminated blood products and the efforts to provide support and accountability are significant developments in the long-standing scandal.
What the papers say
According to The Independent, Andy Burnham has called for criminal prosecutions in the infected blood scandal, highlighting the severity of the injustice. Sky News reports on the extension of the compensation scheme to bereaved children, emphasizing the emotional significance for families. The Guardian discusses the government's agreement to establish a compensation scheme within three months, addressing delays and the need for justice. BBC News covers the final compensation scheme for infected blood victims, highlighting the impact on thousands of NHS patients. Metro reports on children being given contaminated blood treatments in the 70s and 80s, shedding light on the harrowing experiences of survivors.
How we got here
The infected blood scandal in the UK dates back to the 1970s and 80s when thousands of individuals were infected with viruses like HIV and hepatitis through contaminated blood products. The scandal involved negligence in screening blood products and unethical trials on patients, including children, without proper consent. The long-standing issue has led to calls for accountability, justice, and compensation for the victims and their families. Efforts to address the consequences of the scandal have been ongoing, with inquiries and legal actions seeking to provide support and redress for those affected.
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