Old Forge Surgery, Annalong

06/04/2026

https://mourneobserver.com/kilkeel-pharmacy-recognised-for-community-work/?fbclid=IwZnRzaARBFgdleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZAo2NjI4NTY4Mzc5AAEejkjFhER-dA5c31WJqU2XeAZi_UkqrhbJbMGL4G5PzxbbqNYjyNVQeJtdn-U_aem_g-JKYP64FdBNzGF9X6-Xuw

Kilkeel pharmacy wins award for excellence in its field and work with local youth club.

02/04/2026

With students returning home over the Easter break, the PHA is taking this opportunity to make them aware of the signs and symptoms of meningitis and to check that they have had their MenACWY vaccination. Read more at www.pha.site/Meningitis-know-what-to-look-out-for

To find out more about childhood vaccines see www.pha.site/immunisation-vaccines

Further information on meningitis can be found at www.pha.site/meningitis-nidirect

02/04/2026

The life-saving RSV vaccination programme is to be extended to include all those over the age of 80 from 1 April 2026.

People who have not yet received an RSV vaccination and are over 80 will be invited by their GP practice.

The existing RSV programme offers vaccination to:
• residents in care homes for older adults
• adults turning 75 years
• adults aged 75 to 79 years when the programme began
• pregnant women (to protect their babies after they are born)

www.pha.site/immunisation-and-vaccinations

02/04/2026

***Congratulations to all those attending the Glassdrumman Over 50 group ***

The group has been set up with extra funding from our MDT social work team . It has been very successful so far . Those who participate in the weekly sessions enjoy the chance to meet others and to enjoy some activities .

Yesterday they invited our lovely social worker Shauna ( pictured on the right ) to attend for their Easter party . There were plenty of buns and activities to keep everyone entertained !

Well done to all the organisers of this group.
For those interested in attending - please contact Shauna at the surgery

01/04/2026

GP shocked by bowel cancer diagnosis at 49 urges changes to screening

Dr Jonny Dillon is "very angry" that Northern Ireland's bowel cancer screening programme lags behind the rest of the UK.

28/03/2026

Did you know if you have suspected shingles rash you can get treatment from your local pharmacy ? See poster for details.

At present this is a Pilot scheme only and not all local pharmacies are offering this service

If there is any doubt about shingles diagnosis - the pharmacist will advise you to contact the GP surgery for an appointment.

23/03/2026

The Pharmacy First sore throat service is still available to all patients over 5 years old.
Antibiotics can be prescribed after a swab and instant results
See poster for details

18/03/2026

If you are unsure if your child is up to date with vaccinations the easiest way to check is to look at your child’s red book or speak to your health visitor. If your child has missed a vaccination, please contact your GP practice to book an appointment as soon as you can to make sure they have maximum protection against disease.

For more information see www.nidirect.gov.uk/mmr

18/03/2026

The PHA is aware of the meningitis outbreak recently reported in South East England. The UKHSA is leading the response to the outbreak and there is no increased risk to the population in Northern Ireland. However, it is important for everyone to be aware of the signs and symptoms of meningitis and the steps to take if they are concerned. For info see www.pha.site/MeningitisKent

18/03/2026

Who can attend?

Open to current AS-Level pupils and Postgraduate applicants i.e. Those eligible to submit a UCAS application for Medicine in October 2026.

What to expect:

🩺Talks from QUB and UU Medical Schools
🩹Medical School admissions process info
🏥Insight from hospital Doctors and GP's
🚑Interactive clinical skills demonstrations
💊Q&A sessions and networking opportunities

Booking live from 10am Monday 16th March 2026 - Limited Availability
For further information contact: medical.education@southerntrust.hscni.net
Click Link:https://medtribe.pulse.ly/p0mg4zl8ij

13/03/2026

📣 TRAINING OPPORTUNITY 📣

Join us for a free SafeTALK training workshop with PIPS Hope and Support in Newry on Thursday 19th March, 6:30–9:30pm. 💙

✅ Learn to spot signs of suicidal thoughts
✅ Gain confidence to talk and connect someone to help
✅ Break stigma & build a stronger community

Because when we know how to help — we save lives.

📍 PIPS Hope and Support Office
50 Mill Street
Newry
BT34 1AG

☎️ Book your place now by calling us on 028 30266195 / 028 38310151 or email training@pipshopeandsupport.org.

💻Alternatively you can visit our website to secure your place via the link below:

https://www.pipshopeandsupport.org/book-now?ID=4216

12/03/2026

*** Baby massage classes***

Our new social work assistant Aisling has organised a course in Annalong Community Centre to teach mums and dads how to perform baby massage

This will be a very popular class and we expect places to fill up quickly

for those interested in finding out more details or to book a slot - please contact Aisling or Shauna on the phone numbers below