The Public Health Agency (PHA) is investigating an outbreak of E. coli O157 linked to Flicks restaurant in Cityside Mall, 100-150 York Street, Belfast.Health Protection staff from the PHA are currently working with Environmental Health Officers from Belfast City Council to investigate the outbreak. At this stage, ten confirmed or suspected cases have been identified.The management of Flicks have voluntarily closed the premises and are cooperating with the investigation.
PHA supports World Hospice and Palliative Care Day
The Public Health Agency (PHA) is marking World Hospice and Palliative Care Day (Saturday 13 October 2012) by raising awareness of the importance of quality palliative and end of life care and the need for advancements in the way care is delivered for people living with a life-limiting illness, and their families.
Make handwashing part of your daily routine to avoid winter bugs, says PHA
As the winter months are approaching the Public Health Agency (PHA) is using Global Handwashing Day on October 15 to remind people of the need to maintain good hand hygiene. This will help to reduce the risk of picking up or spreading winter viruses such as influenza and norovirus, commonly known as the winter vomiting bug. The PHA is urging everyone to make a habit of regularly washing their hands with soap and warm water. Older people and those with underlying health conditions need to be particularly aware of ways to reduce their risk of picking up infections.
Community Development to tackle health inequalities
‘Local communities can make a significant contribution to improving health and wellbeing when they are empowered to make positive changes for themselves’.
Final call for comments: ‘Your Story Can Change Lives’ and improve mental health services
The Public Health Agency (PHA) is reminding people who have used mental health services to make sure their views are heard by completing the ‘Your Story Can Change Lives’ survey, before 31 October.
GENIE makes important diabetes discovery
An international group of researchers has discovered two genes that increase the risk of developing diabetes-associated kidney disease. Kidney disease is a common and serious complication of diabetes and it is associated with a greatly increased risk of heart attack and stroke. Globally, diabetic kidney disease is now the leading cause of kidney failure requiring dialysis or kidney transplant. Up to now scientists and clinicians were aware that some patients developed kidney disease but not why this happened.