A Picture of Health

This report outlines the key findings of the recent health needs assessment carried out across Northern Ireland. The aim of the study was to provide baseline information on the health needs, barriers to accessing current services, and the care pathways that exist for those experiencing homelessness across NI. The study sought the views of those receiving support (‘clients’) and those providing that support (‘providers’) on a number of health and well-being indicators.

This report outlines the key findings of the recent health needs assessment carried out across Northern Ireland. The aim of the study was to provide baseline information on the health needs, barriers to accessing current services, and the care pathways that exist for those experiencing homelessness across NI. The study sought the views of those receiving support (‘clients’) and those providing that support (‘providers’) on a number of health and well-being indicators.

Northern Ireland setting the health systems research agenda

Over 70 health and research professionals came together for a workshop on Tuesday 17 April to make sure Northern Ireland actively contributes to setting the health systems research agenda for the coming years, both at home and abroad. This ‘National Round Table Consultation’ was organised by the Research and Development Division of the Public Health Agency (HSC R&D, PHA) at Mossley Mill, Newtownabbey, with the support of TO-REACH, a European consortium of 28 partners from throughout Europe and beyond, including funding bodies, policy makers and researchers.

Scarlet fever

What is scarlet fever? Scarlet fever is a common childhood infection caused by Streptococcus pyogenes (also known as group A Streptococcus [GAS]). These bacteria may be found on the skin, throat and other sites where they can live without causing problems. Under some circumstances GAS can cause non-invasive infections such as pharyngitis, impetigo and scarlet fever. On rare occasions they can cause severe disease, including streptococcal toxic shock syndrome, necrotising fasciitis, and septicaemia.

Report on the Regional Choking Review Analysis - thematic review

The Regional Serious Adverse Incident (SAI) group identified the need for a review of Adult SAIs and Adverse Incidents (AIs) relating to choking on food, to inform future regional safety work. The aim was to identify recurring themes, consider regional learning, highlight areas of good practice and to determine if regional actions are required to reduce/prevent reoccurrence of these incidents.

Syphilis infection in pregnancy (professional guidance 2018)

This document has been developed to advise health care professionals in Northern Ireland of their responsibilities in relation to the detection and management of syphilis infection in pregnant women and the management of their babies. The document is based on the British Association of Sexual Health and HIV (BASHH) UK national guidelines on the management of syphilis 2015.

Important advice for pregnant women during lambing season

Despite the weather spring is here and the first lambs have already begun to appear in the fields, so the Public Health Agency (PHA) is reminding pregnant women about the risk of close contact with sheep during lambing season. The PHA is advising women who are, or think they may be, pregnant to reduce their risk of miscarriage and infection by avoiding close contact with sheep during lambing season, which runs until around the end of April.

Put a spring in your step as the clocks go forward

With the clocks having sprung forward at the weekend, the Public Health Agency (PHA) is encouraging everyone to use the stretch in the evenings to stretch their legs. Colette Brolly, the PHA’s lead on physical activity, said: “The longer evenings mean we have more time to get involved in physical activity, whether it’s getting out on the bike, having a kick-about in the park or getting out for a walk.
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