The Public Health Agency (PHA) has confirmed that 125 cases of the COVID-19 Variant Under Investigation VUI-21OCT-01 also known as AY.4.2 and ‘Delta plus’, have been detected in Northern Ireland (confirmed and probable cases as of 27 October 2021). The new strain, which is a mutation of the existing Delta variant, has been found in at least 42 countries, according to a WHO epidemiological update, including other jurisdictions in the UK, the Republic of Ireland, India and the United States. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), formerly Public Health England, has designated it a "Variant Under

As schools, pupils and parents get ready for the return to class after the mid-term break, the Public Health Agency (PHA) and Education Authority (EA) are highlighting the importance of regular asymptomatic testing in schools in reducing the spread of COVID-19. All pupils in years 8-14, and all staff in pre-schools, primary schools and post-primary schools who do not have any symptoms of COVID-19, are strongly urged to take part in the asymptomatic testing programme. Dr Louise Herron, Consultant in Public Health Medicine at the PHA, said: “It’s estimated that around one third of people with

Ahead of World Stroke Day on 29 October the Public Health Agency (PHA) is urging people to think ‘FAST’ if they see someone having a stroke. Stroke is a common cause of death and disability in Northern Ireland. There are approximately 2,800 new strokes here every year, and while the majority of strokes occur in people over the age of 65, it can strike at any age, with 25% occurring in people under the age of 65. Dr Brid Farrell, Deputy Director of Public Health at the PHA, said: “ This World Stroke Day we want to raise awareness of the main signs and symptoms of stroke and what to do if you

The Public Health Agency (PHA) is calling on the parents of eligible children to talk to them about the flu and COVID-19 vaccines, and make an informed choice together about getting vaccinated. This year in Northern Ireland, the childhood flu vaccination programme will be offered to pre-school and primary school children as well as those in Year 8 to Year 12 of post primary school. In addition, children aged 12 to 15 will now be offered one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine through the school immunisation programme. This decision comes following recommendations from the four UK Chief Medical