PHA raises awareness of safer sex ahead of World AIDS Day

The Public Health Agency (PHA) is using World AIDS Day (1 December), as an opportunity to raise awareness about HIV and encourage people to practise safer sex. This comes as the PHA today publishes its ‘HIV surveillance in Northern Ireland 2016’ report, which provides analysis of the latest HIV data for Northern Ireland. HIV/AIDS is a viral infection caused by type 1 and type 2 HIV retroviruses. It can be transmitted through sexual contact, sharing of HIV-contaminated needles and syringes, and transmission from mother to child before, during, or shortly after birth.

HIV surveillance in Northern Ireland 2016

This report aims to provide an overview of HIV epidemiology in Northern Ireland by collating and analysing information from a number of sources. Although it reflects epidemiological trends over time, its main focus will be on data collected in 2015.

This report aims to provide an overview of HIV epidemiology in Northern Ireland by collating and analysing information from a number of sources. Although it reflects epidemiological trends over time, its main focus will be on data collected in 2015.

S. aureus surveillance quarterly report: July-September 2016

S. aureus surveillance quarterly report: July-September 2016

C. difficle surveillance quarterly report: July-September 2016

This quarterly report provides epidemiological data on C. difficile in Northern Ireland, and includes key points, a comprehensive overview of all C. diff infections, rates, trends, age-specific information and statistical process control charts.

High levels of air pollution

High levels of air pollution are being monitored in Belfast and Derry, with people advised to take extra care if they have a respiratory illness. While most people will not be affected by short term peaks in air pollution, some people - particularly vulnerable groups such as those with existing heart or lung conditions - may experience increased symptoms. If you think you may be affected by air pollution levels, you should consider modifying your treatment as you usually do when symptoms increase and, consult your doctor if this is not effective.

Concerned about suicide?

This leaflet contains information on what you can say and do to help someone who may be thinking of suicide.

This leaflet contains information on what you can say and do to help someone who may be thinking of suicide.

It highlights the warning signs, explains the feelings a suicidal person can have and provides a step-by-step guide to having a conversation and helping someone you’re worried about.

It also lists a number of support services for people having suicidal thoughts. 

Take simple steps to ‘Stay Well This Winter’

The Public Health Agency (PHA) and Health and Social Care Board (HSCB) are working together this winter to ensure that people prepare for the colder period. Their joint campaign, ‘Stay Well This Winter’, is urging people to look after themselves and take actions that will help them stay well during winter. Dr Carolyn Harper, Director of Public Health at the PHA, said: “Winter can affect people’s health, particularly those over 65 and people who have a long-term health condition.
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