Surveillance of influenza in Northern Ireland 2012-2013

The 2012/13 influenza season started earlier than in 2011/12; however it lasted longer, with GP consultation rates being elevated for approximately four months. Clinical indices began to increase in late December and peaked in early January, with the only two instances of community syndromic indicators exceeding the baseline threshold occurring in this month. GP influenza-like illness consultation rates in 2012/13 were higher than those in the 2011/12 season for the majority of the season but remained low overall.

Families + fitness = fun in the summer

Long summer days are stretching ahead and the Public Health Agency (PHA) is urging families to get active together, combining fun and physical activity. Being active is great for the body and mind, helps to control weight, protects against heart disease, some cancers and type 2 diabetes, and promotes good mental health and wellbeing. Colette Brolly, Health and Wellbeing Improvement Manager with the PHA said: “With the kids off school and the good weather, this is a great opportunity for children, parents and grandparents to get active together.

PHA supports Queen’s study into eye drug that could save NHS £85m a year

An anti-cancer drug has been proven to be equally as effective in treating the most common cause of blindness in older adults as a more expensive drug specifically formulated for this purpose. The results of a two-year trial, led by Queen’s scientist Professor Usha Chakravarthy, and published in The Lancet today (Friday 19 July), show that two drug treatments Lucentis and Avastin are equally effective in treating neovascular or wet age-related macular degeneration (wet AMD).

PHA Annual report and accounts 2012-2013

The Public Health Agency Annual report 2012–2013 provides background information about the PHA, highlights the achievements during the 2012–2013 financial year and provides an overview of work undertaken in priority areas within each directorate of the organisation.

The full financial accounts are included in this report as is information on members of the PHA board.

Click here for the PDF

Heatwave Advice 2013

With Northern Ireland experiencing the current high temperatures, the Public Health Agency would remind the public and healthcare professionals that the heat can be harmful to your health. The following links provide advice on looking after yourself and others during a heat wave.

Enjoy the sun safely!

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.

Remember to 'wash your hands after visiting the farm'

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.
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