Mr Patsy McGlone (Mid Ulster): To ask the Minister of Health whether his Department has any plans to run targeted meningitis awareness activity for teenagers, young adults, students and their families ahead of the next academic year, including information on (i) symptoms; (ii) the importance of seeking urgent medical help; and (iii) the available meningococcal vaccines.
Minister of Health: There are no plans to run a targeted meningitis awareness campaign ahead of the next academic year.
The PHA worked closely with the Departments of Education and Economy, the Education Authority and the two NI universities to provide advice and public health information on meningitis during the recent outbreak in England in March.
Public health information and advice is already available on the PHA website at: PHA statement – meningitis | HSC Public Health Agency and on NI Direct at: Meningitis | nidirect and this information is updated regularly.
This information advises the public on symptoms of meningitis, when and where to get help and how meningitis is spread and of the need to act fast if they suspect they or a family member may be symptomatic.
ENDS
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