The Public Health Agency (PHA) is urging everyone to take steps to reduce the spread of flu, COVID-19 and RSV – particularly by getting vaccinated if you are eligible. This reduces the risk of illness for you and those around you, and can also help with wider pressures on our health service this new year. The PHA is also reassuring everyone who is eligible for vaccination under the free HSC programme that sufficient stock of vaccines is available, so they shouldn’t delay in getting them. Dr Joanne McClean, Director of Public Health at the Public Health Agency (PHA), said: “ Every year we

The Public Health Agency (PHA) has issued advice for people to look after themselves and others following the yellow warning for snow and ice this week. Dr Anna Cullen, Public Health Doctor at the PHA, said: “As temperatures drop with snow and ice predicted for this week, this is a good opportunity to plan ahead to try to reduce its impact. “For some people the onset of the cold weather can bring particular hazards. Vulnerable and older people can find it difficult to get out to the shops or to keep their house adequately heated, putting them at risk. “However, there are steps we can take to

The Public Health Agency (PHA) is encouraging smokers to make it their New Year’s resolution to quit smoking and improve their health, with a range of free support available to help. Dr Joanne McClean, Director of Public Health at the PHA , said: “The start of a new year provides a brilliant opportunity to make a fresh start and to quit smoking. Quitting smoking is one of the best things you can do to improve your health and protect people around you from harmful second-hand smoke. Quitting will also save you money, which is significant as people face tough times with the cost of living crisis

The Public Health Agency (PHA) is highlighting different ways you can get active in 2025 as we gear up for the New Year. Gerard Walls, Senior Health and Social Wellbeing Officer at the PHA, said: “At this time of the year, following Christmas, many people will be looking at how they can become healthier and fitter, get more active, and achieve a healthy weight. “Being physically active is really important and daily activity will help you feel better, manage stress, improve your sleep and maintain a healthy weight. It can also reduce your risk of developing chronic conditions such as heart

During the live 12 week consultation period for the draft Public Health Agency (PHA) Corporate Plan 2025-2030 two in-person stakeholder events will be held to give you the opportunity to collaborate on this important strategy. In-person stakeholder consultation events Date: Monday 13 January 2025 Tuesday 21 January 2025 Time 2.00pm to 4.00pm 10.30am to 12.30pm Location: Involve NI 16-18 Queen Street Magherafelt BT45 6AB Lagan Valley Island 1 The Island Lisburn BT27 4RL This draft Plan sets out the strategic direction for the PHA for the next five years in terms of what we will do and how we

Alcohol is a powerful drug and the Public Health Agency (PHA) is urging everyone not to let drink ruin your Christmas and New Year celebrations. Stephanie Hanlon, Joint Regional Lead for Drugs and Alcohol at the PHA, said: “All too often we see families affected by their loved ones over-indulging in alcohol, and that can be a particular problem at this time of year when many choose to drink alcohol as part of their festive celebrations. “Many people might use alcohol to relax but instead of helping us to cope, excess amounts can have both an immediate and long term negative impact on our lives

The Public Health Agency (PHA) is offering a free seasonal flu vaccine this winter to those at risk of exposure to avian (bird) flu. While the vaccine doesn't protect against bird flu, it can reduce the risk of a new flu virus forming which could happen if someone is exposed to flu and bird flu at the same time. In line with advice issued by the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) and the Department of Health policy, the flu vaccine is being offered to people who handle and work with poultry, including people processing poultry, egg sorting or who have direct exposure to

Ahead of the Christmas holidays, the Public Health Agency (PHA) is reminding parents and carers of young babies of the importance of following safer sleep advice to reduce the risk of sudden infant death. At this time of year, with festivities and celebrations, normal routines and sleeping arrangements for young babies may be changed. However, the safest place for your baby to sleep is in their own cot or moses basket, in the same room as you. Emily Roberts, Designated Nurse for Safeguarding Children at the PHA, said: “It is really important to keep your baby’s sleep environment safe