A round-up of other health news in brief
Less than third of us have EU holiday cover
Fewer than one in three Irish people carry the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), according to a recent survey of the scheme. Introduced five years ago to replace the E111 form, the EHIC gives citizens of the European Union access to public health services throughout Europe when on holiday. It does not replace supplementary travel insurance for more serious accidents. Members of the EU and the non-EU countries of Norway, Liechtenstein, Iceland and Switzerland are included in the scheme. To apply online, see www.hse.ie
Survey on access to leisure for all
Enable Ireland is asking people with disabilities and parents of children with disabilities to take part in an online survey on their experiences of social and leisure activities.
In 2008, research for the organisation showed that two out of three people with a disability found it difficult to access any form of social or leisure activity.
Kate Raymond of Enable Ireland said: “What we want to find out with this year’s survey is what type of activities they have trouble accessing and why.”
The survey is available online through www.enableireland.ie/actionweek. Results will be released in advance of Action Week on Disability, which will take place from 14th-19th September 2009.
Good hygiene stops Swine Flu
As cases of Influenza A (H1N1), also known as Swine Flu, continue to rise, it is crucially important that people help prevent the spread of the virus by following good hygiene measures.
These include washing your hands regularly with soapy water, particularly if you have shared public facilities. Use paper tissues only once and keep all hard surfaces, such as kitchen worktops, door handles, and so on, clean. Cover your mouth and nose when sneezing and stay at home if you are ill. Free phone 1800 94 11 00 for more details.
Cookery course for children
A cookery course for children goes ahead in Ballymaloe Cookery School in Shanagarry, Co Cork, on Saturday from 9.30am-2pm.
The young chefs will learn how to make cakes, lemonade and lots more. Cost €55. Booking essential on slowfood@cookingisfun.ie or tel: 021 4646785.