Sun safety warning during lockdown

One of the unintended consequences of lockdown and people spending more time in their gardens or yards could be an increased risk of sunburn, according to the Public Health Agency (PHA) and Cancer Focus Northern Ireland. The two bodies are using Sun Awareness Week [May 4-10] to encourage people to remember to stay sun safe in the current circumstances and be aware of ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Denise McCallion, Senior Health Improvement Officer at the PHA, said: “Our behaviours have very much changed since guidance was introduced to help prevent the spread of coronavirus. This will inevitably

Death and grief during the COVID-19 pandemic: supporting each other following the death of a colleague

Note: many of the coronavirus restrictions have changed since this resource was originally published, but much of the information may still be relevant to those facing a bereavement.

Death and grieving in a care home during the COVID-19 pandemic: a guide to supporting staff, residents and their families

Note: many of the coronavirus restrictions have changed since this resource was originally published, but much of the information may still be relevant to those working in care homes.

PHA recommends daily vitamin D supplement during lockdown

The Public Health Agency (PHA) is recommending that everyone take vitamin D supplements during the lockdown period to help keep bones, teeth and muscles healthy. Vitamin D is an essential vitamin for everyone and we get it from two main sources, sunlight and food. Caroline Bloomfield, the PHA’s lead on Nutrition and Healthy Eating, said: “During the coronavirus pandemic the government has advised that we all stay at home, and while many of us will actually be outdoors more than usual if we have gardens or go outside for our once-daily exercise, for some the lockdown will mean spending much

You are not alone - breastfeeding support is still available during COVID-19

COVID-19 is affecting all our lives and there is a lot we need to get used to. If you are pregnant or you have just given birth, this can be a particularly worrying time. But as we are all spending much more time in our homes, this can present a great opportunity to start and continue to breastfeed. Janet Calvert, Health and Social Wellbeing Improvement Manager at the PHA, said: “We know that breastfeeding mums need support and with the reduction of home visits from health professionals we want to make sure you know you are not on your own. “Breastmilk provides all the nutrients your baby

Verification of life extinct in nursing or residential care homes

The Chief Nursing Officer and Chief Medical Offer recently requested assistance with expanding the role of verification of life extinct by nurses.

Get vaccinated when invited for routine immunisations during COVID-19

The Public Health Agency (PHA) is urging people who are invited for routine vaccinations to be aware that it is more important than ever to take up the opportunity during the COVID-19 pandemic. The call comes during World Immunisation Week (24-30 April) which highlights the importance of vaccines in protecting society against many lethal vaccine-preventable diseases. Dr Jillian Johnston, Consultant in Health Protection at the PHA, said: “Vaccines save millions of lives every year and are well recognised as being one of the most successful public health interventions in the world. “In Northern
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