Issue 173 - Belfast BT6 • BT7 • BT8
Public Health Agency encourages uptake of autumn vaccination
The Public Health Agency (PHA) is encouraging people in Belfast and across NI who fall into an ‘at risk’ group to take up the offer of the autumn vaccinations as soon as you are invited.
Belfast is set to be a host city for UEFA EURO 2028 after the UK and Ireland recently won the right to stage the tournament. Those celebrating the announcement include Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Ryan Murphy; Irish FA Chief Executive Patrick Nelson, Ulster GAA CEO, Brian McAvoy and Head of the Northern Ireland Civil Service, Jayne Brad.
Belfast set to be UEFA Euro 2028 host city!
Belfast is set to be a host city for UEFA EURO 2028 after the UK and Ireland recently won the right to stage the tournament. Bringing one of the world’s biggest sporting events to Northern Ireland, and delivering impactful and lasting sporting, cultural and economic benefits, Casement Park, Belfast, is set to be one of 10 host stadia across the UK and Ireland. The news follows the pioneering joint bid to host UEFA EURO 2028 submitted by the Irish
Football Association, the Football Association of Ireland, the Scottish Football Association, the Football Association of Wales and the Football Association being accepted by UEFA following a bid presentation at its headquarters in Nyon, Switzerland. Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Ryan Murphy, said: “I
am hugely proud that Belfast will take its place alongside other iconic host cities across these islands to welcome fans from Europe and beyond for UEFA EURO 2028. “The inclusion of Belfast in the successful UK and Ireland bid to host UEFA EURO 2028 is testament to our city’s rich and diverse tourism and culture
offering, coupled with our proven expertise and track record of success in hosting world class major events. I know we will deliver a fantastic visitor experience, creating lifelong memories, and I am excited at what the future holds for our wonderful city.”
Continued on page 4
All individuals in clinical risk groups who are aged from six months to 65 years, as well as those aged 65 years and older, are advised to receive the vaccines. If you are ‘at risk’, either due to older age, a health condition, medical treatment or are pregnant, you are at increased risk of becoming seriously unwell if you contract influenza or COVID-19. Vaccines are the most effective way to prevent infectious diseases as they teach our immune system how to recognise and fight viruses. They are safe, effective and free for all those in the eligible groups. If you have questions about the vaccines, talk to your healthcare provider and make an informed decision. Some people may be offered the flu jab and COVID-19 booster vaccine at the same appointment.
It is safe and effective to receive it in this way. Being vaccinated against both viruses will give you the best protection from a potentially devastating double threat this winter. The programme is being implemented using a combination of GPs, community pharmacies and Health and Social Care Trusts, with the majority of vaccinations expected to be administered by GPs and community pharmacies. People who are eligible for vaccination should make themselves aware of their own GP surgery’s, community pharmacist’s or trust’s vaccination arrangements. Household contacts of immunocompromised individuals and carers are also eligible. Find out more at www.nidirect.gov.uk/ wintervaccines.