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NEWS


PHA urges parents to vaccinate children as flu cases rise among 5–14 year olds
The Public Health Agency (PHA) is urging parents and guardians across Northern Ireland to ensure their children receive the seasonal flu vaccine, as the latest surveillance data shows influenza activity on the rise — with the highest positivity rate recorded in children aged 5–14. All pre-school children and those in primary school up to Year 12 are eligible for the free flu vaccine, delivered as a simple nasal spray. Dr Amanda McCullough, Specialty Registrar in Public Health
Nov 19


‘It can happen to anyone’: Portstewart student’s MRSA battle highlights growing AMR crisis
Amy Symington As the world marks World Antimicrobial Resistance Awareness Week (WAAW) next week, the Public Health Agency (PHA) is shining a light on the very real and often devastating consequences of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). At the centre of this year’s message is the powerful experience of 21-year-old Portstewart woman Amy Symington , whose life was upended when a seemingly minor hip pain evolved into a life-threatening infection resistant to common antibiotics. For
Nov 15


4,000+ hospitalised with flu last year – PHA urges eligible people to get their free winter vaccines
Health Minister Mike Nesbitt and Alison Griffiths, Nurse Consultant PHA launching the winter vaccines in Portaferry The Public Health...
Sep 30


Take 5 – Simple daily actions can boost mental health, says PHA
The Public Health Agency (PHA) and Health and Social Care (HSC) organisations are encouraging people across Northern Ireland to look...
Sep 10


PHA urges concert-goers to stay safe with drug warning ahead of weekend events
As Northern Ireland prepares for a series of concerts this weekend, the Public Health Agency (PHA) has issued a stark reminder to the...
Aug 28


Good Morning Antrim: Lifeline for older people, tackling loneliness with daily calls
Libby Higham, Coordinator at the Family Caring Centre A heartfelt telephone befriending service in Antrim is making a significant...
Jun 14


Northern Ireland joins UK-wide single-use vape ban: A win for health and nature from 1 June 2025
A landmark ban on single-use vapes has come into effect today across the United Kingdom, marking a pivotal moment in the nation’s efforts...
Jun 1


Countdown begins for the 2025 Active Travel Challenge across Northern Ireland
L-R: Callie Persic, Development Manager at Belfast City Council, Stephen Wilson, Head of Strategic Engagement, Public Health Agency,...
May 28


Alarming rise in youth vaping in NI: PHA report highlights urgent public health concerns
A groundbreaking report from the Public Health Agency (PHA) has shed light on the escalating issue of vaping among young people in...
May 24


PHA urges holidaymakers to take precautions for a healthy trip abroad
With the summer travel season approaching, the Public Health Agency (PHA) has issued timely guidance to help holidaymakers safeguard...
May 19


Minister calls on public to support health service by prioritising personal health and wellbeing
Health Minister Mike Nesbitt has made a direct appeal to the people of Northern Ireland, urging them to take greater personal...
May 18


Public Health Agency urges families to prioritise hand hygiene on days out
Ahead of World Hand Hygiene Day (5 May), the Public Health Agency (PHA) is calling on families across Northern Ireland to take simple but...
May 4


District nursing conference highlights commitment to population health and wellbeing
Pictured at the conference are back row Seanna McNeill, Sadie Campbell, Maria Betts, Grainne Moore. Front row Lizzie Crawford, Leah...
Apr 25


AAA screening event reminds men to attend for potentially life-saving test
An Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA) is a potentially fatal condition which can particularly affect older men, but can be detected with a...
Apr 22


Stress Awareness Month: PHA urges simple steps to manage everyday pressures
This April, as part of Stress Awareness Month, the Public Health Agency (PHA) is encouraging people across Northern Ireland to adopt...
Apr 12


Having a drink on St Patrick’s Day? You don’t want to be green the next day… drink responsibly – PHA
As people get ready to celebrate St Patrick’s Day, the Public Health Agency (PHA) is encouraging anyone choosing to drink to be careful...
Mar 16


Campaign urges people to talk about their true feelings
The Public Health Agency (PHA) is highlighting the importance of having conversations about our true feelings in a campaign that shows...
Feb 13


Folic acid supplements important in pregnancy planning
The Public Health Agency (PHA) is reminding all women who could become pregnant and women who are already pregnant about the importance...
Feb 8


PHA issues baby bath seat warning
Bath time is a fun and essential part of a child's routine, but it’s also a moment when water safety is crucial. The Public Health Agency...
Nov 8, 2024


The importance of vitamin D this autumn and winter
The Public Health Agency (PHA) recommends that everyone should consider taking a vitamin D supplement this autumn and winter to help keep...
Oct 12, 2024
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