People in Northern Ireland have been playing their part in the development of a potential new COVID-19 vaccine as part of a UK-wide trial. The National Institute for Health Research (NIHR)-supported Novavax Phase 3 COVID-19 vaccine trial has achieved its recruitment target of 15,203 volunteers just two months after opening in the UK – including 482 participants from Northern Ireland. This is the first COVID-19 vaccine trial to take place in Northern Ireland and the number recruited surpassed the original target of 350. Recruitment closed on Friday 27 November at its Belfast site, where staff

Despite the difficulties coronavirus has caused this year, there are over 335 projects in communities across Northern Ireland that have benefited from over £975,000 investment by the Public Health Agency (PHA). This investment has been the result of a short-term funding programme to support the mental and emotional wellbeing of communities, with thousands of participants of all ages and backgrounds benefitting. The short-term funding programme has awarded grants of between £1,000 and £5,000 and have enabled community and voluntary sector groups to implement small-scale programmes within

The Public Health Agency (PHA) is urging everyone who falls into an eligible group to get the free flu vaccine ahead of the anticipated increase in spread of the virus. Dr David Irwin, Consultant in Health Protection at the PHA, said: “After a very strong rate of uptake of the initial batch of vaccine, a temporary pause on some aspects of the seasonal flu vaccination programme was put in place until the next scheduled consignment of vaccine arrived. “Approximately 200,000 doses of flu vaccine have now been received as planned, so we are urging everyone who is in an eligible group to get the

The Public Health Agency (PHA) is warning parents and guardians about the dangers of lithium button cell batteries, which are used to power many children’s toys but are highly dangerous if accidentally swallowed, and is also urging everyone to ensure any toys bought for Christmas are age-appropriate. The festive period can typically see a rise in the number of small, button-shaped lithium cell batteries introduced to the home as they are contained in many toys, musical Christmas cards, remote controls and a host of other electronic items. Hilary Johnston, Health and Social Wellbeing

The PHA is aiming to raise awareness of ‘hidden disabilities’ by developing an online programme of activity to celebrate Disability Awareness Week NI from Monday 30 th November to Friday 4 th December 2020. The event has an international line up of speakers, hailing from India to Oregon. Their key aim is to break down barriers to access and inclusion and raise awareness of the needs of people with a disability. In partnership with Derry City and Strabane District Council, the event will be the fifth annual celebration of the week, ahead of International Day for People with Disabilities on

The Public Health Agency (PHA) has received information regarding incidents involving young people suspected of vaping 'spice' or 'mamba' through e-cigarettes and becoming ill. A substance purchased as THC or cannabis oil was identified as a synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists (SCRAs) 4F-MDMB-BINACA (Psychoactive), also known as ‘spice’ or ‘mamba’. All drugs, whether illegal drugs or prescription medication, carry risks. The PHA strongly recommends that you do not take anything unless it has been prescribed to you by a medical professional and in accordance with your prescription. The PHA

The Public Health Agency (PHA) is recommending that everyone takes vitamin D supplements during the winter months to help keep bones, teeth and muscles healthy. Dr Hannah Dearie, Senior Health and Social Wellbeing Improvement Officer at the PHA, said: “Vitamin D is an essential vitamin that everyone needs to stay healthy, and we get it from three main sources – sunlight, supplements and food. “During the summer months, from late March/early April to the end of September, our bodies can make most of the vitamin D we need from sunlight on our skin. However, during the winter months, with reduced

The Public Health Agency (PHA) is focusing attention on the need for good mental health this International Men’s Day [19 th November], particularly during these challenging times, and is reminding everyone that support is available. Fiona Teague, Mental and Emotional Wellbeing lead at the PHA, said: “The coronavirus pandemic is causing difficulties for everyone. It is impacting on job security, our businesses are under significant pressure, family relationships are being pushed because of reduced outside connections. Men in particular can sometimes struggle to seek support if they are