Ahead of World Breastfeeding Week (1–7 August), the Public Health Agency (PHA) is highlighting the vital role that support at home – from partners, grandparents, family and friends – plays in helping mothers to start and continue breastfeeding. This year’s theme, ‘Prioritise Breastfeeding – Create Sustainable Support Systems’, highlights the important role that support networks play in helping mothers successfully breastfeed, not just in the early days, but throughout their breastfeeding journey. Despite having made progress over the years and an increased awareness of the importance of

A new gonorrhoea vaccination programme will commence in Northern Ireland in August and the Public Health Agency (PHA) is encouraging eligible people to make an appointment for vaccination to help protect them and their sexual partners against infection. From August, eligible people, which includes gay men, bisexual men and other men who have sex with men (GBMSM) who have a recent history of multiple sexual partners or a sexually transmitted infection (STI), will start to be offered the vaccine, with two doses advised. This follows advice from the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation

The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) are reminding women on popular medicines for weight loss and diabetes to use safe and effective contraception. This includes GLP-1 medicines, more commonly known by their brand names, including: Ozempic Mounjaro Wegovy Saxenda Victoza Effective contraception includes oral (the pill) and non-oral (the implant, coil or condoms) forms of contraception. Those taking the weight loss injection, Mounjaro, who are overweight and using an oral form of contraception, are advised to also use a non-oral form. Mounjaro may reduce the

As the 153rd Open Championship returns to Royal Portrush, the Public Health Agency (PHA) is encouraging everyone attending to follow a few simple steps to help stay healthy and enjoy the tournament safely. Dr Patrick McAleavey, Consultant in Health Protection at the PHA, said: “With large crowds expected, it’s important to take some basic precautions to reduce the risk of illness and injury during the event. “Firstly, if you’re planning an overnight stay remember to pack a portable carbon monoxide alarm. Whether staying in a short-term let or camping, bringing your own CO alarm is the sensible

The Public Health Agency (PHA) is encouraging everyone to ‘Take PRIDE’ in their sexual health during this year’s Belfast Pride Festival and to take up the offer of free vaccination if eligible. Frances Dowds, Health and Social Wellbeing Improvement Manager at the PHA, said: “We want to get as many people as possible talking openly about their sexual health – this includes discussing and understanding their options around STI testing and vaccination eligibility. “Taking PRIDE in your sexual health is so important for individual health and wellbeing. Talking openly with our partners about our

As the 153rd Open Championship returns to Royal Portrush, the Public Health Agency (PHA) is encouraging everyone to use this world-class sporting event as inspiration to get active and take positive steps toward a healthier lifestyle. Regular physical activity offers a wide range of physical and mental health benefits. It can help to boost your mood, improve sleep quality, enhance self-confidence and reduce anxiety. Being active also supports a healthy weight and can help prevent and manage chronic health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes and dementia. David Tumilty, Health