| HSC Public Health Agency

Hepatitis B - Could I be at risk? (English and translations)

This leaflet provides information on Hepatitis B - how the virus is spread, the symptoms of the virus and treatment available.

Cross border patient safety training programme: making a difference

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An event in Armagh to mark the completion of a patient safety training programme outlined how this unique cross-border project is benefitting patients in local hospitals and health facilities.

Influenza Weekly Surveillance Bulletin Northern Ireland, Week 12 (18 – 24 March 2013)

GP consultation rates remain below the Northern Ireland threshold of 70 per 100,000 population. GP consultation rates decreased from 44.7 per 100,000 population in week 11 to 32.1 per 100,000 population in week 12, 2013 (28% decrease); however, this decrease is likely due to the bank holiday period.

The Influenza Weekly Surveillance Bulletin is produced by the PHA and covers statistics for Northern Ireland. The bulletin is produced during the flu season.

Reducing the risk of human infection from pet rodents

The Health Protection Agency (HPA) has issued new guidance for owners of pet rodents following two recent UK cases of hantavirus which are described in a paper published in this week’s Eurosurveillance.

Adverse weather advice

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During adverse weather many people can experience a range of situations associated with the extreme weather such as cold and freezing temperatures, no electricity or mains water and flooding. The Public Health Agency (PHA) has compiled public health information to assist the public in these situations. Click here for public health information.

Emergency preparedness and environmental hazards

Read more about Emergency preparedness and environmental hazards

Public health advice following flooding

Read more about Public health advice following flooding

Flooding has affected a number of areas in Belfast and Lisburn causing disruption and the Public Health Agency (PHA) is reminding people of the potential public health risks associated with flash flooding.

Remember about your neighbours during the cold spell

Read more about Remember about your neighbours during the cold spell

With more snow forecast for Co Down today and tomorrow the Public Health Agency is advising everyone to look after themselves and others during the March cold spell. Vulnerable and elderly people can find it difficult to get out to the shops or to keep their house adequately heated during the cold weather. The PHA is encouraging everyone to watch out for neighbours, friends and those who may be more vulnerable during severe weather and check that they are ok. The following advice can help you or a neighbour keep warm at home:

Think about carbon monoxide poisoning before lighting the fire

Read more about Think about carbon monoxide poisoning before lighting the fire

With the unexpected cold weather set to continue until the weekend, the Public Health Agency is advising everyone to be aware of carbon monoxide poisoning from lit fires. We would also urge the public to check that the fuel source elderly neighbours are using is safe. CO poisoning can be fatal and affect anyone. However, children, older people, pregnant women and people with heart or breathing problems are more vulnerable to its effects.

PHA honours future journalists at awards

Read more about PHA honours future journalists at awards

The eighth annual Public Health Agency (PHA) media awards run by the Western Investing for Health Partnership which honour media students for their understanding of public health issues have been held in Derry-Londonderry. The awards were presented by Mark Simpson from the BBC at a ceremony held in Waterside Theatre. Students from colleges and universities were invited to submit articles and pictures on a current health issue.