As Northern Ireland enjoys soaring temperatures, the Public Health Agency (PHA) and Cancer Focus Northern Ireland are reminding sun-seekers – take as much care in the sun at home as you would abroad! Dr Miriam McCarthy, Consultant in Public Health Medicine, PHA, said: “Being active outside during the summer is good for your health, but everyone needs to be aware that the sun can cause permanent damage to your skin. One episode of sunburn, especially in childhood, doubles the lifetime risk of malignant melanoma, the most serious form of skin cancer.

There are currently around 200 people in Northern Ireland on the waiting list for a transplant and 16 people in Northern Ireland died due to the shortage of organs in the last year*. NHS Blood and Transplant is highlighting the figures to encourage people to pass on their donation wishes to their loved ones during National Transplant Week 2013 (8th-14th July).

Now that schools are finished for the summer and parents are thinking of activities to keep their children entertained, the Public Health Agency (PHA) is reminding families about the importance of washing hands after all outdoor activities, particularly after visiting the farm or farmyard settings. All animals naturally carry a range of organisms, some of which can be transmitted to people. Some organisms which may be contracted on farms present a serious threat and can potentially cause severe infection, particularly in young children.

As part of Belfast PRIDE 2013 the Public Health Agency (PHA) is launching a new e-learning programme to help raise awareness and understanding of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGB&T) issues in the workplace.

The Public Health Agency (PHA) is using its early warning system to raise awareness of the risks of drug misuse in light of recent reports and local concerns regarding incidents which may be related to drug misuse.

Falls can be a significant cause of harm to patients in receipt of Health and Social Care (HSC) in Northern Ireland and are among some of the most frequent adverse incidents. Although all falls cannot be prevented without unacceptable restrictions to patients’ independence, dignity and privacy, research has shown that falls can be reduced by 20–30% through assessment and intervention.

The Public Health Agency (PHA) is launching a new childhood vaccination programme to protect babies against the diarrhoea and vomiting bug rotavirus, a very common and potentially serious infection of the lower gut. From 1 July 2013 the routine childhood immunisation schedule will include the rotavirus vaccine to protect babies against rotavirus. In Northern Ireland this infection is responsible for around 4,000 GP visits and 400 hospitalisations every year in children under five years.

A new leaflet and poster – ‘A grandparent’s guide to supporting breastfeeding’ – have been launched by the Public Health Agency (PHA). The posters and leaflets are to provide information to grandparents who want to support their daughter or son’s partner who has decided to breastfeed. These new resources are being launched to coincide with National Breastfeeding Week.