COVID-19: What is the situation in Northern Ireland?

What is the situation in Northern Ireland? From Sunday 19 April the Department of Health will be releasing the daily statistics on coronavirus (COVID-19) which will be available at www.health-ni.gov.uk The daily update from the Department of Health replaces the Daily Bulletin published by the PHA up to 19 April 2020. The Public Health Agency COVID-19 advice page can be found here. Previous surveillance reports can be found here. Information sources As this situation is rapidly changing the most up-to-date guidance can be found on the Public Health England website: www.gov.uk/government

Making menopause manageable: how healthy habits can help

As World Menopause Day approaches on 18 October, the Public Health Agency (PHA) is highlighting how simple lifestyle choices – particularly around nutrition, physical activity and sleep – can make a real difference to women’s health and wellbeing during perimenopause and menopause. Half of the world’s population will experience menopause, and around eight in ten women report troublesome symptoms such as hot flushes, night sweats and brain fog. This year’s theme, ‘Lifestyle Medicine’, shines a light on how everyday habits can help manage symptoms and support long-term health. Dr Hannah McCourt

Public Health Agency urges people to look after their eyes

The Public Health Agency (PHA) is highlighting the importance of looking after your eyes through all stages of life, including booking your regular eye tests and going to get your eyes checked if you notice worrying symptoms or changes in your eyes. One local woman, who wishes to raise awareness, has shared her story after being diagnosed with a serious eye condition. Gail Cairns first experienced vision loss, headaches and eye pain, but waited a week before visiting her optician. The Optician, Sam Baird, was able to carry out detailed scans and immediately referred her to hospital. Thanks to

COVID-19 vaccinations - A guide for parents of children 6 months to 11 years of age at high risk

Children whose immune systems don’t work as well (immunosuppression) are at serious
risk from the complications of COVID-19 infection.
 

Eligible children and young people who are aged 6 months to 11 years should have the
COVID-19 vaccinations.

This factsheet is for parents of children aged 6 months to 11 years old whose immune systems don’t work as well (immunosuppression) and are at high risk from the complications of COVID-19 infection.

Bereavement support guide for managers - dealing with the sudden death of a service user

This guide helps managers support staff after the sudden death of a client or service user, through suspected suicide or substance use.

This guide helps managers support staff after the sudden death of a client or service user, through suspected suicide or substance use.

Positive Ageing Month: social connection vital for wellbeing

The Public Health Agency (PHA) is shining a spotlight on the importance of social connection and encouraging people to take part in age-friendly events as part of Positive Ageing Month this October. Throughout the month, Age Friendly Coordinators in all 11 local council are hosting activities alongside community organisations designed to bring people together, help reduce isolation and celebrate the valuable contribution older people make to our communities. Jeff Scroggie, Regional Health Improvement Lead for Ageing Well at the PHA, said: “Loneliness is one of the biggest risks to older people

Know your breasts, and attend for screening when invited – it could save your life

The Public Health Agency (PHA) is raising awareness of the signs and symptoms of breast cancer and encouraging everyone to be breast aware throughout Breast Cancer Awareness Month which runs throughout October. Breast cancer is the second most common type of cancer in women in Northern Ireland. It can occur at any age, but the risk of developing it increases with age. Dr Louise Herron, Deputy Director of Public Health at the PHA, said: “Breast cancer accounts for 30 percent of all cancer in women in Northern Ireland, with around 1,500 cases a year. As the risk increases with age and most cases

A guide to the COVID-19 autumn vaccine 2025

The COVID-19 vaccine is being offered this autumn to people aged 75 and over, residents in care homes for older people and anyone aged 6 months and over who is immunosuppressed.

The COVID-19 vaccine is being offered this autumn to people aged 75 and over, residents in care homes for older people and anyone aged 6 months and over who is immunosuppressed.

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