The Public Health Agency (PHA) is reminding people planning on travelling to continental Europe to ensure they have had their Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR) vaccinations. The advice comes following a number of confirmed cases of measles in people who have recently returned from Romania and Italy. All of the cases have been reported in children and adults who have not received two doses of the MMR vaccine. Measles is a highly-infectious viral illness that can be very unpleasant and can sometimes lead to serious complications.

The Public Health Agency (PHA) and the five Northern Ireland Drug and Alcohol Coordination Teams (NIDACTS) are urging anyone who is affected by a loved one’s drinking and/or drug misuse to get help from the family support services that are available here.

As Christmas approaches, the Public Health Agency (PHA) is encouraging people to look after their mental health and that of their family and friends during the holiday season. Amanda O’Neill, Senior Health and Social Wellbeing Improvement Officer with the PHA, said: “Many of us will be looking forward to Christmas when we can spend more time with our family and friends. “However, for some people this is a very difficult time, perhaps because of the expense involved, stress, bereavement, or feelings of isolation or loneliness.”