Urgent medical care for stroke essential during coronavirus pandemic

The Public Health Agency (PHA) is reminding the public of the importance of seeking urgent medical care if they or someone else experiences any of the symptoms of stroke. Help is available for those who need medical attention throughout the pandemic. If not treated urgently, a person is at a higher risk of death or disability if they take a stroke than from COVID-19. During the COVID-19 pandemic, stroke units have seen a slight reduction in the number of patients admitted with stroke. Dr Brid Farrell, Consultant in Public Health Medicine at the PHA, said: “Across Northern Ireland people are

PHA: no room for complacency with coronavirus

The Public Health Agency (PHA) has warned that complacency around coronavirus could lead to further spread of the disease, and ultimately result in deaths. Dr Gerry Waldron, Head of Health Protection at the PHA, said: “Thanks to people following advice, we have managed to reduce the levels of coronavirus in our community. However, we cannot let this create a false sense of security and let our guard drop, as this could undermine and reverse everyone’s hard work to date. “COVID-19 can be a fatal disease, and sadly, in Northern Ireland over 500 people have lost their lives. We must not forget

PHA Update

Accident prevention in the spotlight during Child Safety Week

Accidents are the main cause of death for children post-infancy, with many occurring in the home. During Child Safety Week (1- 7 June) the Public Health Agency (PHA) is raising awareness of accidents that can happen in the home and providing helpful tips to prevent them from occurring. In Northern Ireland in a typical week, two people die as a result of home accidents. In addition to these deaths, there are approximately 17,000 admissions to hospital each year as a result of unintentional injuries. Hilary Johnston, Health and Social Wellbeing Improvement Manager with the PHA, said: "More

World No Tobacco Day: Quit smoking to improve your health

With World No Tobacco Day approaching (31 May) the Public Health Agency (PHA) is encouraging people to consider quitting smoking to improve their health. “Giving up smoking is one of the best things you can do for yourself, with benefits for your health, your appearance and your finances,” said Brendan Bonner, Assistant Director of Public Health, (Health Improvement) with the PHA. “Now more than ever we know that looking after your health is critical to your wellbeing and ability to fight off infections. Stopping smoking will have a positive impact on your health. For example in the context of

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