Parents urged not to ignore signs of type 1 diabetes during COVID-19 pandemic

The Public Health Agency (PHA), Diabetes UK and the Diabetes Network are urging parents and carers not to ignore the signs of type 1 diabetes during the COVID-19 pandemic, and are reassuring them that help and support is available for those who need medical attention. Type 1 diabetes cannot be prevented and occurs when the pancreas is no longer able to produce insulin. It is the most common type of diabetes in children and young adults, but can develop very quickly, requiring urgent medical attention Every year between 110 and 150 children develop type 1 diabetes in Northern Ireland. Dr Bríd

Healthcare Apps to help you during COVID-19

Health and Social Care (HSC) in NI in partnership with ORCHA (Organisation for Review of Care and Health Apps) has developed a library of high quality, convenient Apps to support health and social wellbeing during these difficult times. The outbreak of COVID-19 has impacted on us all, leading to unprecedented changes in our everyday lives. The restricted living conditions and daily challenges we face can lead to feelings of stress and other difficult emotions. Health Minister Robin Swann said: “Since taking up post as Health Minister I have made mental health and wellbeing a priority. In these

PHA offers safer shopping advice

The Public Health Agency (PHA) has issued public advice to help make shopping trips safer during the coronavirus pandemic, and reassure shoppers about how to look after themselves while picking up essentials. Dr Gerry Waldron, Head of Health Protection at the PHA, said: “While the message is to stay at home, clearly there is a need to do shopping for food and other essential supplies when necessary. For many people who are rightly socially distancing and following guidance, going to a shop at the minute can be quite stressful, as it can mean touching communal surfaces such as trolleys and

Sun safety warning during lockdown

One of the unintended consequences of lockdown and people spending more time in their gardens or yards could be an increased risk of sunburn, according to the Public Health Agency (PHA) and Cancer Focus Northern Ireland. The two bodies are using Sun Awareness Week [May 4-10] to encourage people to remember to stay sun safe in the current circumstances and be aware of ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Denise McCallion, Senior Health Improvement Officer at the PHA, said: “Our behaviours have very much changed since guidance was introduced to help prevent the spread of coronavirus. This will inevitably

Death and grief during the COVID-19 pandemic: supporting each other following the death of a colleague

Death and grieving in a care home during the COVID-19 pandemic: a guide to supporting staff, residents and their families

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