Whelehans Health News
Heading off on hols? Some advice on what you can do to mitigate against possible health risks before you go
Posted by Eamonn Brady on
Holiday Tips Part 1 Several diseases travelers should be aware of include hepatitis A, typhoid and malaria. Hepatitis A: a liver viral infection contracted from contaminated food or water or from close contact with an infected person. Practicing good hygiene will protect against catching the hepatitis A. A vaccine is also available. Typhoid is contracted in the same way as hepatitis A but is caused by a bacterium instead of a virus. The bacterium, called Salmonella typhi, enters the intestines and can spread to the bloodstream. Antibiotics are used to treat typhoid. It is recommended to get vaccinated against the...
Hayfever season is here - what you need to know
Posted by Eamonn Brady on
Spring has sprung - 1st of 2 articles about how Sunshine helps build Vitamin D and how, in turn, benefits your general well being
Posted by Eamonn Brady on
Vitamin D Part 1 Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin. It helps absorb calcium and phosphorus in the intestines so it can be absorbed by the bones, keeping the skeleton strong. Therefore, preventing bone diseases including, osteoporosis and rickets in children. Vitamin D deficiency also causes a mild muscle weakness, thus increasing the risk of falls and hence fractures in older people. Therefore, vitamin D supplementation is often important in this age group. It is also known as the “good mood vitamin” and research shows it helps fight depression. How is Vitamin D Produced? Vitamin D can be...
Autumn Vaccine Season - Flu & COVID 19 Booster now available
Posted by Eamonn Brady on
Ireland’s Winter Vaccination Campaign for 2025 / 26 aims to protect vulnerable populations from flu and COVID-19, as both viruses are expected to circulate widely this season. The HSE offers free flu and COVID-19 vaccines to specific groups, including those aged 60 and over, healthcare workers, pregnant individuals, and people with long-term health conditions. Additionally, children aged 2 to 17 are eligible for a nasal spray flu vaccine. Vaccines are available through participating GPs, pharmacies, and workplace vaccination clinics. Whelehans offer both the COVID -19 booster and the flu vaccine. Influenza Influenza, or the flu, is a contagious respiratory...
Taking too many meds? Here are some of the ways we can help
Posted by Eamonn Brady on
Actions taken by pharmacists at Whelehans to reduce Polypharmacy (over prescribing of medicines) for patients. Part 1 Reducing polypharmacy for patients requires a comprehensive approach by pharmacists. Here are key actions that our pharmacists at Whelehans during med reviews to review overuse of medicines for both nursing home and non-nursing home patients. What Whelehans Pharmacists to tackle polypharmacy. I have split this up into ten areas I feel are important to reduce polypharmacy. 1. Conduct Regular Medication Reviews Regularly review residents' medication regimens for appropriateness, efficacy, safety, and necessity. Assess for potential drug-drug or drug-disease interactions and duplicate...