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

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) remains a serious public health threat and protecting essential medicines for the future relies on all of us acting now, so this World Antimicrobial Awareness Week (18-24 November) the Public Health Agency (PHA) is asking everyone to help keep antibiotics working. The future of antibiotics depends on all of using them properly. These essential medicines are used to treat infections caused by bacteria. It is important to remember that antibiotics do not treat infections caused by viruses. Dr Jenny Mack, Public Health Doctor at the PHA, said: “It’s worrying that

Public health practitioners and researchers have gathered virtually today for the annual cross-border Joint Public Health Conference, which this year is examining how COVID-19 has affected the lives of citizens in Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, with a particular focus on how the pandemic has impacted on inequalities across a range of aspects of life. Health Minister Robin Swann and the Minister for Health for the Republic of Ireland Stephen Donnelly jointly opened the conference. Minister Swann said: “ The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic has been felt by us all. However, it has

The Public Health Agency (PHA) has provided reassurance that plans to offer the flu vaccine to those who are eligible, and in particular people aged over 65, are proceeding as expected, and there is no shortage. Dr Gerry Waldron, Head of Health Protection at the PHA, said: “We are concerned that recent comments around the delivery of the flu vaccine may cause undue alarm to those who are still due to receive it, especially during the coronavirus pandemic. As we outlined in October, uptake has been exceptional, with people getting the vaccine in higher numbers than ever before, so a temporary