Shiga toxin-producing E.coli (STEC)

VTEC areecoli a group of bacteria which cause illness in humans. The most important VTEC strain to cause illness in the UK is E. coli O157. Symptoms can range from mild gastroenteritis to severe bloody diarrhoea, mostly without fever, through to two serious conditions known as haemolytic uraemic syndrome (HUS) and thrombotic thrombocytopaenic purpura (TTP) that affect the blood, kidneys and in severe cases the central nervous system.

E. coli O157 - Update

The Public Health Agency (PHA) is investigating an outbreak of E. coli O157 linked to Flicks restaurant in Cityside Mall, 100-150 York Street, Belfast.Health Protection staff from the PHA are currently working with Environmental Health Officers from Belfast City Council to investigate the outbreak. As of 13.30 on 15 October 2012, there are 12 confirmed cases and 57 probable cases.The management of Flicks have voluntarily closed the premises and are cooperating with the investigation.

E. coli O157

The Public Health Agency (PHA) is investigating an outbreak of E. coli O157 linked to Flicks restaurant in Cityside Mall, 100-150 York Street, Belfast.Health Protection staff from the PHA are currently working with Environmental Health Officers from Belfast City Council to investigate the outbreak. At this stage, ten confirmed or suspected cases have been identified.The management of Flicks have voluntarily closed the premises and are cooperating with the investigation.

This is the first update newsletter of the Speech, language and communication therapy action plan. The action plan was developed by the Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety (DHSSPS) with the aim that all children and young people at risk of or presenting with speech, language or communication needs will be able to benefit from timely support and integrated services that best meet their requirements.

Make handwashing part of your daily routine to avoid winter bugs, says PHA

As the winter months are approaching the Public Health Agency (PHA) is using Global Handwashing Day on October 15 to remind people of the need to maintain good hand hygiene. This will help to reduce the risk of picking up or spreading winter viruses such as influenza and norovirus, commonly known as the winter vomiting bug. The PHA is urging everyone to make a habit of regularly washing their hands with soap and warm water. Older people and those with underlying health conditions need to be particularly aware of ways to reduce their risk of picking up infections.

The Influenza Weekly Surveillance Bulletin is produced by the PHA and covers statistics for Northern Ireland. The bulletin is produced during the flu season.

Tables showing  Gram Negative, Gram Positive and Anaerobic Bacteraemias  reported in Northern Ireland, from 2010 to 2016.

Charts showing E.coli and ESBL Bacteraemias in Northern Ireland, by quarter, from 2010 to 2016.