The Public Health Agency (PHA) would like to remind the public that although there is a continuing presence throughout Northern Ireland of the winter vomiting virus, also known as norovirus, at present, it is not unusual for this time of year. The PHA recommends simple, practical steps to minimise the risk of illness to others, especially older people and those with underlying conditions who may be more vulnerable.

This Christmas the Public Health Agency (PHA) is encouraging everyone in Northern Ireland to sign the NHS Organ Donor Register and give the ‘Gift of Life’. Almost 200 people in Northern Ireland are currently waiting for a transplant and sadly the chance will come too late for many. One family that knows all too well the joy the ‘Gift of life’ can bring is echoing the PHA’s plea.

Flu is more likely to surface in the winter months and with this in mind the Public Health Agency (PHA) is advising on what action to take if you develop the illness, particularly over the Christmas period. Dr Maureen McCartney, Consultant in Health Protection, PHA, advises: “If you do get flu, the PHA’s advice is to stay at home and don’t spread your infection to others, rest, drink plenty of fluids and use over-the-counter remedies if they make you feel more comfortable.

With the holiday season in full-swing, minds will soon be turning to New Year’s resolutions, and once again quitting smoking will be at the top of many people’s ‘to do’ list when the clock strikes midnight on 31 December. With this in mind, the Public Health Agency (PHA) is encouraging smokers to make a plan, think about what steps they are going to take to stay off tobacco for good, and to seek practical support and advice from a Stop Smoking Service.

We all think of having a good time at Christmas. Stress and loneliness aren’t something people tend to talk about during the holiday period. However, at this time of year, it is extremely important to look after your own mental health and that of family and friends, says the Public Health Agency (PHA). This is particularly important as people’s alcohol consumption can increase over the festive period, which may increase feelings of stress or depression.

Vulnerable people from across Northern Ireland will receive protective clothing to help them keep warm this winter, through the Public Health Agency’s (PHA) ‘Keep Warm’ scheme. The scheme aims to provide support for those most at risk who are unable to adequately heat their homes this winter, including older people, children, and those with chronic illnesses or disabilities made worse in cold weather. This regional scheme has been funded by the PHA, working in partnership with local councils, health and social care trusts, and community networks.

A care pathway for Perinatal Mental Health was launched this week by the Public Health Agency (PHA) which will provide local guidelines for health care professionals on effective ways of accessing the appropriate advice, information and treatment for pregnant women presenting with signs of mental ill health.

The Public Health Agency (PHA) has declared an outbreak of measles after four cases of the disease were detected in Northern Ireland over the past week. All four cases have occurred among young people in south Belfast. PHA has contacted the parents and guardians of other children who may have been exposed to these cases advising them of the situation and of the need to rapidly protect unvaccinated individuals with the MMR (measles, mumps and rubella) vaccine.

As part of their commitment to supporting and promoting the City of Culture 2013 over 60 staff from the Public Health Agency (PHA), Health and Social Care Board and the Western Health and Social Care Trust (Western Trust) recently completed the WorldHost Ambassador training programme, with the aim of becoming cultural champions and volunteers during 2013.