The Public Health Agency (PHA) has just launched a revised version of the Personal Child Health Record also known as the ‘Red Book’. This book is given to all parents following the birth of their child or if they move to Northern Ireland from another country. The redesigned version is being introduced following consultation with parents and health professionals. Additional messages and information have been added for parents on keeping children safe and healthy and is illustrated by artwork from student nurses from Ulster University School of Nursing.

We’re all looking for ways to eat a bit healthier, so this Obesity Awareness Week (8–14 January) the Public Health Agency (PHA) has released 16 new recipes to help make the tough decisions about what to eat that little bit easier.

With flu levels having risen in recent weeks and many of us experiencing coughs and colds, the Public Health Agency (PHA) is offering some simple advice to us get through winter and reminding everyone that hand hygiene and self-care are essential when preventing and managing colds and flu. Dr Lucy Jessop, Consultant at the PHA, said: “Washing your hands regularly will help prevent flu and other winter viruses spreading.

The Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) has issued advice about air pollution. There is a strong possibility of moderate to high levels of air pollution in urban centres across Northern Ireland today (Wednesday) and tomorrow. Levels are currently low, though are forecast to increase going into this evening and persisting overnight and into tomorrow. The wind is expected to strengthen from the early hours of Friday morning which should disperse pollutants and bring levels down.

High levels of air pollution (particulate matter) are currently being monitored in the Derry/Londonderry area with people advised to take extra care if they have a respiratory illness. Low levels of air pollution are being monitored elsewhere across Northern Ireland, though there is a possibility that other urban areas will experience high air pollution as a result of the current weather conditions. The pollution is likely to persist overnight and into tomorrow (Monday), with the situation improving from tomorrow evening onwards.

The Public Health Agency (PHA) is urging people who are eligible for the free flu vaccination to get it without delay. The call comes as the strains of flu seen during Australia’s winter season, particularly A(H3N2), are increasing in prevalence on this side of the world. Australia experienced its worst flu season since the 2009 pandemic, and global circulation means we are seeing an increase in cases here too.

Many of us end up making the same New Year’s resolution every year – to start eating better and taking more exercise – only to give up after a short time because of not hitting our targets quickly. The Public Health Agency (PHA) is on hand with tips and advice, and the key to success is to be realistic and make small manageable changes that work for you.

While many of us will be focusing on having a great time over the Christmas period, minds will soon be turning to New Year’s resolutions, and once again quitting smoking will be at the top of many people’s ‘to-do’ list come the 1 January 2017. The Public Health Agency (PHA) is encouraging smokers to use this opportunity to make a plan, think about what steps they are going to take to stay off tobacco for good, and seek practical support and advice from a free ‘Stop Smoking Service’.

With many families out and about over the Christmas holidays, the Public Health Agency (PHA) is reminding breastfeeding mums to keep an eye out for the more than 530 Breastfeeding Welcome Here venues across Northern Ireland. Popular family venues, council facilities, cafes, tourist attractions and a host of other businesses are members of the scheme and you can find them all on www.breastfedbabies.org