In these challenging financial times the use of research as a basis for effective health and social care cannot be overstated. ‘Shaping the Future’, a joint Public Health Agency (PHA) and University of Ulster workshop (27 January) takes a fresh look at research within the Allied Health Professions (AHPs) to improve the care and experiences of people across Northern Ireland.

The total number of pseudomonas cases and colonisations* notified to the Public Health Agency today are as follows: Total number of confirmed pseudomonas infections associated with the Royal Jubilee Maternity Hospital (RJM) outbreak: seven (in RJM).

Yesterday's possible case of Pseudomonas infection relating to the outbreak at the neonatal unit in the Royal Jubilee Maternity Hospital has been confirmed, bringing the total number of cases to seven. It was also confirmed during a regional update yesterday that there are no reports of any new babies having the Pseudomonas bacteria on their skin as a result of the outbreak. The regional update was attended by representatives from the Department of Health, five Trusts, the PHA, the Health and Social Care Board and the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service.

To date, six babies have been confirmed to have been infected with Pseudomonas in the outbreak at the neonatal intensive care unit in the Royal Jubilee Maternity Hospital (RJMH). Today, a further baby within the unit is also being treated as potentially infected.Although laboratory results have yet to be confirmed, doctors have a high index of suspicion and are treating the baby on clinical grounds. The total number of babies who have the Pseudomonas bacteria on their skin is now six. It is not causing active infection in these babies.

The Public Health Agency (PHA) is helping to raise awareness and understanding of the issues affecting lesbian, gay and bisexual (LGB) people by funding a series of training workshops for healthcare professionals across the Northern region. The training will also include appropriate information on assistance and support, which can be offered to improve the health and wellbeing of local LGB people.

Each year around 90 women in Northern Ireland are diagnosed with cervical cancer and about 30 women die from the disease. During Cervical Cancer Prevention Week (22-28 January 2012) the Public Health Agency (PHA) is calling on all women to attend for cervical screening when invited, as it could literally save lives. It is estimated that in a well screened population, four out of five cervical cancers can be prevented.

Futher tests for Pseudomonas have not shown any new cases of infection in the outbreak at the Royal Jubilee Maternity Hospital, and the total remains at six. The neonatal network is currently managing well. Some mothers due to give birth or babies who require special neonatal care, may be transferred to another unit, as would be normal practice. This will be on the basis of specialist, clinical advice to ensure babies receive the most appropriate care.