Skip to main content

News

 

Handwashing: A Key Defence Against Winter Viruses

The cold, dark days may gradually be getting warmer and lighter, but winter viruses like colds, flu and COVID-19 can still spoil our plans. 

Antenatal Screening Wales continues to support informed choices for expectant mothers

Public Health Wales has published the latest Antenatal Screening Wales (ASW) annual report, covering the period from April 2022 to March 2024, highlighting the role of antenatal screening in providing expectant mothers with crucial information about their and their baby’s health. 

Pregnant women urged to take precautions during lambing season

Pregnant women in Wales are being reminded to avoid contact with animals that are giving birth, have recently given birth, or have aborted. This advice, which also applies to women who may not yet know they are pregnant, is particularly relevant during the lambing season in Wales.

Views sought on new standards for health and well-being in schools

Public Health Wales are developing a new set of standards for a whole school approach to health and well-being in schools in Wales. We are now in the final phase of engagement and we would like to hear the views of key partners (including schools) on the proposals. 

1 in 4 drug-related deaths involve cocaine

Latest figures from Public Health Wales reveal that over 1 in 4 drug-related deaths registered in 2023 involved cocaine.

Tooth decay rates in 12-year-olds in Wales fall, but challenges remain

Public Health Wales and dental health experts have welcomed findings from the NHS Wales Dental Epidemiological Programme, which show a significant reduction in tooth decay rates among 12-year-olds in Wales.  

Statement on North Wales Water Shortages

Public Health Wales is working closely with Dŵr Cymru Welsh Water to respond to the water shortages caused by the incident at the Bryn Cowlyd Water Treatment Works in Dolgarrog, Conwy.

International evidence shows 'sugar taxes' reduce uptake of less healthy foods

Evidence from countries including Mexico and Hungary, have shown that when governments have taken action to introduce taxes on unhealthy foods and sugar sweetened beverages (SSBs), it does result in a reduction in their purchase and consumption. 

Preventing poor health is better value for money for NHS Wales and tackles inequalities

Putting in place effective programmes to prevent poor health offers great value for money. Prevention initiatives such as early years education, vaccination programmes, smoking cessation and support for carers can deliver excellent value for money - with an average return of £14 for every £1 invested in them.

Parents urged to be watchful for norovirus symptoms

Public Health Wales is urging parents and carers to be watchful for the symptoms of norovirus ahead of schools and nurseries re-opening, as cases of the illness increase in Wales.