Public health conference looks at ‘Picking up the Pieces’ in the aftermath of COVID-19

Public health practitioners and researchers have gathered virtually today for the annual cross-border Joint Public Health Conference, which this year is examining how COVID-19 has affected the lives of citizens in Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, with a particular focus on how the pandemic has impacted on inequalities across a range of aspects of life. Health Minister Robin Swann and the Minister for Health for the Republic of Ireland Stephen Donnelly jointly opened the conference. Minister Swann said: “ The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic has been felt by us all. However, it has

PHA provides reassurance on flu vaccination

The Public Health Agency (PHA) has provided reassurance that plans to offer the flu vaccine to those who are eligible, and in particular people aged over 65, are proceeding as expected, and there is no shortage. Dr Gerry Waldron, Head of Health Protection at the PHA, said: “We are concerned that recent comments around the delivery of the flu vaccine may cause undue alarm to those who are still due to receive it, especially during the coronavirus pandemic. As we outlined in October, uptake has been exceptional, with people getting the vaccine in higher numbers than ever before, so a temporary

This poster has been created by Belfast HSC Trust and is supported by the Regional Pressure Ulcer Prevention Group led by the PHA.

Don’t let the spectre of coronavirus haunt your Hallowe’en

The Public Health Agency (PHA) is urging people to keep safe at Hallowe’en by coming up with new ways to have fun which stick to guidance around staying safe from contracting and spreading COVID-19 (coronavirus) within our families and communities. In recent weeks there has been an increase in COVID-19 cases in Northern Ireland and additional restrictions have been introduced to limit the spread of the virus. It is important that every one of us sticks to these, and to public health guidance generally, so we can have fun safely. Dr Gerry Waldron, Head of Health Protection at the PHA, said:

High flu vaccination demand – further stock to be put in place

The COVID-19 pandemic has meant the worldwide demand for the seasonal flu vaccine has been exceptionally high, including in Northern Ireland. This will lead to a temporary pause on some aspects of the seasonal flu programme until further stock becomes available next month. Dr Gerry Waldron, Head of Health Protection at the Public Health Agency (PHA), said: “Demand for the flu vaccine this year has been phenomenal, and we are pleased that people have acted on the call to get it to help protect themselves and their loved ones. Flu alone can be a dangerous illness, but with coronavirus also in

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

The bulletin is produced during the flu season.

 

A useful guide to mental and emotional wellbeing resources with easily accessible links to relevant websites and information.

This resource guide aims to support employers and employees to access information on improving health and wellbeing at work.

Putting in place an effective workplace health programme that meets the needs of each business requires access to effective tools and information, which will help assess the needs of employees and assist with developing and implementing plans.

This guide uses the World Health Organization (WHO) model as the basis for developing a workplace health programme. The WHO model involves eight stages and four aspects of the working environment.

Health initiative to help people Work Well and Live Well

A Public Health Agency (PHA) workplace health and wellbeing service, which has been supporting workers throughout the coronavirus pandemic, has been officially launched by the Health Minister Robin Swann. ‘Work Well Live Well’ initially began on 1 March 2020 in order to support businesses to improve the health, safety and wellbeing of employees within the workplace. However, with the beginning of lockdown and most businesses requiring employees to work from home, the service adapted to meet the new and diverse needs of these organisations. Supporting the initiative Health Minister Robin Swann