With the most vulnerable groups having been prioritised, the current influenza vaccination programme is now being extended to include everyone aged 50 to 64 years old. The Public Health Agency (PHA) is urging everyone in this category, and those in other eligible groups including all health and social care workers, to come forward now and take the opportunity to get vaccinated to help protect themselves and those around them. The call comes as flu activity continues to increase. Getting vaccinated will help protect more people from flu and help to relieve possible further pressure on the

Cold weather can have a serious impact on our health, and with temperatures dropping, the Public Health Agency (PHA) has some advice for keeping warm at home. Tracey Colgan, Senior Health and Wellbeing Improvement Officer at the PHA, said: “Many people may be reluctant to put on their household heating with energy costs at high levels, but being cold poses serious health risks, particularly for older people and those with heart and lung problems, as it increases the risks of heart attacks, strokes and chest infections. “Cold homes can also cause and worsen respiratory conditions and

The arrival of Christmas is a happy time for many but the Public Health Agency (PHA) is encouraging those who struggle at this time of year to take time to protect their mental health and wellbeing and that of friends and family. Fiona Teague, Regional Lead for Mental Health and Emotional Wellbeing at the PHA, said: “Being aware of your own mental wellbeing and that of your friends and family could be the best gift this Christmas. “This time of year can be difficult for many, with pressures around finances, feelings of stress and loneliness coping with bereavements, or even the pressure of

With Christmas fast approaching, the Public Health Agency (PHA) is encouraging eligible people to take up the offer of the free COVID-19 and flu vaccines as soon as possible to top up their protection. During the colder winter months when people stay indoors for longer, and often in larger groups, there is an increase in the number of people experiencing coughs, colds and flu-like illnesses. Vaccination remains the best way to protect yourself against flu and COVID-19 and the PHA strongly encourages eligible people to take up the vaccination offer now, to help avoid missing out on socialising

Parents and carers are being warned to be alert to the dangers of ‘button batteries’ this Christmas, with the Public Health Agency (PHA) highlighting how easily things can go wrong. Lithium cell batteries, also known as ‘button batteries’, are common in many children’s toys but are a significant danger to a child or adult’s health if swallowed. They can cause choking, poisoning, or burning, and can lead to life-changing injuries or even death. Janine Gaston, the PHA’s Lead on Home Accident Prevention, said: “This time of year sees many toys coming into households and it can be hard to keep

The Public Health Agency (PHA) is calling for people to make themselves aware of the signs and symptoms of meningitis, with the prevalence of this potentially life-threatening illness at its highest during the winter. Louise Flanagan, Consultant in Public Health at the PHA, said: “Meningitis can occur at any time of year, but is seen most frequently in the winter. It is a serious disease, so it is vital everyone becomes more vigilant and makes themselves aware of the signs and symptoms of the condition, as a rash is not the only sign to be aware of. “The symptoms are often non-specific. In the

The Northern Ireland Cervical Screening programme has introduced full primary HPV testing into the cervical screening pathway. The full integration of HPV testing brings Northern Ireland in line with similar programmes in the rest of the UK and Republic of Ireland. Between 2016 and 2020 in Northern Ireland, an average of 81 people were diagnosed with cervical cancer each year, and there were around 21 deaths from cervical cancer annually. Nearly all cervical cancers are caused by persistent infection with human papillomavirus, known as HPV. Dr Joanne McClean, Director of Public Health at the

As the festive party season gets in to full swing, the Public Health Agency (PHA) is reminding everyone of the potential dangers of mixing alcohol and drugs. Most fatal overdoses involve the use of more than one type of drug and any combination of prescription drugs, over-the-counter drugs, illicit drugs and alcohol can be dangerous. Kevin Bailey, Regional Lead for Drugs and Alcohol at the PHA, said: “All too often we see families affected by loved ones becoming seriously unwell or dying due to drugs. Particularly at this time of year, we are urging people to stay safe and avoid taking risks