As we face a difficult economic climate, in which inequalities may worsen, the PHA faces many challenges in its efforts to improve the health of the population. One such challenge is the issue of obesity. Recently, in the Draft Programme for Government and, again today, in anticipation of the publication of the Consultation on the Review of Health and Social Care Services in Northern Ireland, the specific issue of obesity has been highlighted in the media.

As part of International Suicide Survivors Day (19 November) the Public Health Agency (PHA) and the Foyle Film Festival are inviting anyone bereaved or affected by suicide to a panel discussion, for advice and support, at 7:15pm, 24 November, in the Nerve Centre, Magazine Street, Derry. An audience discussion will follow the screening of the ‘International Survivors of Suicide Day’ film, one of 250 showings throughout the world, on six continents, to mark International Suicide Survivors Day.

The 17th annual Regional Sexual Health Conference held last week attracted delegates from across Northern Ireland. Funded by the Public Health Agency (PHA) and the Belfast Health and Social Care Trust, this conference will help to improve Children and Young People’s Sexual Health.

Recent health figures show that 20% of adults surveyed admitted to drinking over the weekly alcohol limits (1) so the Public Health Agency (PHA) is using Alcohol Awareness Week (14-20th November) to reinforce the importance of drinking sensibly and staying within safe alcohol limits.

To mark the start of Carbon Monoxide Awareness Week (21- 25th November 2011), the Public Health Agency (PHA) is advising people to have their fossil fuel and wood burning appliances - such as boilers, heaters and cookers - checked by an appropriately registered engineer before the winter sets in, to reduce the risk of carbon monoxide (CO) exposure. CO alarms are also recommended for every home, however, they should not be used as a substitute for regular servicing of appliances.

On European Antibiotics Awareness Day (18 November) the Public Health Agency (PHA) and Health and Social Care Board are reinforcing the message that antibiotics do not work against viruses such as colds and flu and therefore are of no benefit in treating viral infections. Antibiotics are effective only against bacterial infections. The correct diagnosis and the decision about whether antibiotics are necessary can only be made by a medical doctor. Remember: Antibiotics won’t work in the case of cold or flu. Patients should:

NI Water and the Public Health Agency have lifted the boil notice for the remaining customers in the Finvoy area. This means that the water supply in this area and all areas in Ballymoney can now be used without boiling. Customers will receive a hand delivered notice to advise them their water can be used in the normal way.

The Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) vaccine, which reduces the risk of developing cervical cancers, is being routinely offered to girls aged 12-13 (Year 9) in schools across Northern Ireland. The Public Health Agency (PHA) is reinforcing the message for all parents to encourage their daughters to have this vaccine which will significantly reduce their risk of developing cervical cancer throughout their lives.