It may be January, but the first lambs have already started to appear in fields across Northern Ireland, so it’s a timely reminder to pregnant women from the Public Health Agency (PHA) of the potential risks associated with close contact with sheep during lambing season. The PHA advises women who are pregnant or think they may be pregnant to take precautions to reduce the risk of miscarriage and infection by avoiding close contact with sheep, particularly during lambing season, which typically runs until the end of April. Dr Patrick McAleavey Consultant in Health Protection at the PHA, said:

This Cervical Cancer Prevention Week, the Public Health Agency (PHA) is reminding women of the importance of attending for cervical screening when invited. Screening is aimed at detecting early cell changes that could go on to develop into cancer if they are not treated. Between 2018 and 2022, there was an average of 84 people diagnosed with cervical cancer annually in Northern Ireland, with around 21 deaths per year. Dr Joanne McClean, Director of Public Health at the PHA, said: “Cervical cancer is one of the few cancers that can be prevented thanks to screening, so it is really important to

As a new year begins, many people will set resolutions to improve their health and wellbeing. The Public Health Agency (PHA) is encouraging everyone to focus on small, sustainable changes that can make a big difference—boosting energy, improving mood, and reducing the risk of chronic health conditions. Dr Hannah McCourt, Health Improvement Manager at PHA, said: “January is a great time to think about what really matters for your health, but don’t feel pressured into quick fixes or fad diets – they rarely last. Instead, start small and make changes you can stick with. Even simple steps, like

The Public Health Agency has announced that chickenpox vaccination will be added to the childhood immunisation programme from January, which will help protect thousands of children from this unpleasant and potentially serious illness each year. This will be the first time in Northern Ireland that children will be offered protection against chickenpox for free through the childhood programme. Immunisation is the safest and most effective way of protecting our children against serious diseases. Dr Joanne McClean, Director of Public Health at the PHA, said: “Parents will now be able to help

The Public Health Agency (PHA) is encouraging smokers to make quitting smoking their New Year’s resolution and to take a positive step towards better health. The agency funds a range of free stop smoking support services to help people on their quit journey. Colette Rogers, Strategic Lead for Tobacco Control at the PHA, said: “The beginning of a new year provides a brilliant opportunity to make a fresh start and to quit smoking. It’s one of the best things you can do to improve your health and protect people around you from harmful second-hand smoke. Quitting will also save you money, which

As temperatures drop and routines change during the festive period, the Public Health Agency (PHA) is reminding parents and guardians that following safer sleep advice is essential to reduce the risk of sudden infant death. Emily Roberts, Director of Nursing at the Public Health Agency, said: "The festive period can bring extra challenges – colder weather, busier homes and alternative sleeping arrangements. While it’s natural to want to keep your baby warm and comfortable, it’s important to remember safe sleeping advice. Adding extra blankets or sharing a bed for warmth can increase risks.