Avian influenza

Avian influenza is an infectious disease of birds caused by the influenza A virus. Birds are the hosts for most avian influenza viruses and a variety of influenza subtypes can be found in birds, particularly in water fowl and shore birds. Domestic poultry are especially vulnerable and the virus can rapidly cause epidemics in flocks.

Human infections with avian influenza are rare. However, some viruses, such as H5N1 or H7N9, have been associated with human disease.

Information for women who were either unable to have or unable to complete breast screening x-rays (mammograms)

Don’t ignore your cervical screening invitation – it could save your life

During Cervical Cancer Prevention week (22-29January) the Public Health Agency (PHA) is reminding women to take up the invitation to have a regular cervical screening test. Dr Tracy Owen, Consultant in Public Health Medicine at the PHA, said: “Data from 2010-2014 show that, on average, 96 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer and 23 women die from the disease each year in Northern Ireland. It is therefore important for women to accept their invitation for a screening test – it could literally save your life.

Dementia campaign posters

Dementia - know the signs

Core Tables 2015 - Supporting the Director of Public Health Annual Report 2016

Students returning to uni urged to get meningitis vaccine

Students returning to university for the start of term are being urged by the Public Health Agency (PHA) to get a vaccine that can help protect against meningitis and septicaemia. The vaccine, which helps protect against meningococcal A, C, W and Y disease, is available from GPs for anyone aged 17-19 years (ie those born between 2 July 1996 and 1 July 1999), and first time university students up to the age of 25. Figures show that only around half of those eligible in this age group have so far taken up the free vaccine.

Stop smoking for good in 2017

As we progress through January, many people who quit smoking as a New Year’s Resolution may be finding it tough to stay off tobacco, so the Public Health Agency (PHA) is urging people to make use of the support that is available to help make their decision permanent. Colette Rogers, Strategic Lead for Tobacco Control with the PHA, said: “We know that stopping smoking can be very difficult, but help is at hand.

Aged 70 or 78? Remember to get your shingles vaccination

The Public Health Agency (PHA) is reminding all people aged 70 and 78 years old that they are eligible to receive the shingles vaccine. The vaccine will help protect them against this common and painful disease and its complications. The shingles vaccine is being offered routinely to people who were aged 70 years on 1 September 2016 (born between 2 September 1945 and 1 September 1946 inclusive); and as part of a catch-up programme, also to those aged 78 on 1 September (born between 2 September 1937 and 1 September 1938 inclusive).

Cook, cut and walk – top tips for Obesity Awareness Week

This Obesity Awareness Week (9-15 January) the Public Health Agency (PHA) is encouraging everyone to try to cook healthier recipes, cut out snacks and get a bit more active. Caroline Bloomfield, Health and Social Wellbeing Improvement Senior Manager at the PHA, said: “At this time of year, many of us are looking at what we can do to be that little bit healthier, so the PHA is offering top tips on how you can make a difference with some simple steps.
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