A new vaccination programme aimed at preventing gonorrhoea will commence in Northern Ireland in August 2024. Eligible individuals, particularly gay and bisexual men with recent histories of multiple sexual partners or previous sexually transmitted infections (STIs), are encouraged to schedule appointments now.

According to the Public Health Agency (PHA), gonorrhoea has become the most frequently diagnosed STI in sexual health clinics across Northern Ireland. This vaccination initiative follows a recommendation from the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) in November 2023, prompted by a significant increase in gonorrhoea cases. England is also set to roll out its vaccination programme in the same month.

Rachel Spiers, Immunisation and Vaccination Programme Manager at the PHA, noted that approximately eight out of ten gonorrhoea infections occur in men. She stated, “Gay and bisexual men are most commonly affected, so by offering the vaccine to those most at risk it will not only help to protect them against the disease but will also help to reduce the spread.”

The vaccine being deployed is an existing one for meningococcal B disease, known as 4CMenB. Research from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) suggests that individuals receiving this vaccine could achieve protection from gonorrhoea of up to 40%, potentially addressing the rise of antibiotic-resistant strains of the infection.

Rising Gonorrhoea Cases in Northern Ireland

Gonorrhoea diagnoses in Northern Ireland have surged sharply since 2022. The PHA reported a total of 1,606 diagnoses in 2022, which is two and a half times higher than in 2021. This elevated level of diagnoses has remained consistent in 2023, though there was a slight decline in 2024, with 1,208 reported cases.

Transmission of gonorrhoea occurs easily through unprotected sexual contact. Alarmingly, about one in ten infected men and nearly half of infected women do not display any symptoms. Additionally, the infection can be passed from a pregnant woman to her baby, potentially leading to severe complications, including permanent blindness in newborns if left untreated. Notably, gonorrhoea is not spread through non-sexual contact, such as hugging, or via surfaces and materials like toilet seats and towels.

Even individuals who have undergone successful treatment for gonorrhoea previously can contract the infection again. The introduction of the vaccination is a proactive step aimed at curbing this public health concern and protecting at-risk populations.

As Northern Ireland prepares for this vaccination rollout, health officials urge those eligible to take advantage of the opportunity to safeguard their health and contribute to reducing the prevalence of gonorrhoea in the community.

Three dedicated athletes from Aberystwyth Athletic Club (AC) recently showcased their endurance by tackling two significant ultramarathons in South Wales and the Alps. These events pushed their limits far beyond traditional running distances, as they embraced the challenges of long-distance racing.

Balazs Pinter participated in the Dragon Coastal Ultramarathon, organized by Run Walk Crawl events. The race commenced in Rhossili on July 19, 2023, and posed a daunting task: covering 100 miles with an ascent of 3,400 metres. Runners had until midnight on Sunday to complete the course, which concluded at the Norwegian Church in Cardiff. Pinter finished the race in an impressive 31 hours and 9 minutes, earning not only a medal but also a celebratory finisher’s dinner featuring cheesy chips.

Meanwhile, the previous weekend saw fellow Aberystwyth AC members Dave Powell and Louise Barker compete at the Grantrail Courmayeur Mont-Blanc in Italy. Louise opted for the GTC55, a challenging route of 51 km with an elevation gain of 3,500 metres. She completed the race in 11 hours and 1 minute, demonstrating her grit and determination in the face of a demanding course.

Dave Powell took on an even greater challenge with the GTC100, which required running 100 km with a staggering 7,400 metres of ascent. He finished this ultra in a remarkable 26 hours and 17 minutes, solidifying his reputation as a formidable long-distance runner.

The achievements of these Aberystwyth AC athletes reflect not only their personal dedication but also the growing popularity of ultramarathons. These events attract runners from various backgrounds who are eager to push their physical and mental boundaries. As the sport continues to evolve, more athletes are likely to take on such challenges, inspired by the impressive performances of individuals like Pinter, Powell, and Barker.

The commitment to long-distance racing exemplified by these runners highlights the resilience and tenacity required to excel in the world of ultramarathons. Their experiences serve as motivation for others to explore the limits of their endurance and perhaps take on their own ultramarathon journeys in the future.

A man has been charged with causing the death of 16-year-old Jaidyn Rice following a tragic incident in Co Down. Jaidyn was struck by a vehicle shortly before 23:00 on July 8, 2023, on the West Circular Road in Bangor. Unfortunately, she was pronounced dead at the scene shortly thereafter.

According to the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI), a 30-year-old man faces charges including causing death by dangerous driving. He is scheduled to appear at Newtownards Magistrates Court on July 29, 2023. The PSNI confirmed that the charges related to the fatal collision involving Jaidyn, who was walking as a pedestrian.

Mourning and Tributes in the Community

The community of Co Down has been left in mourning following Jaidyn’s death. Hundreds gathered for her funeral service at St Andrew’s Presbyterian Church in Bangor on July 11, 2023. The ceremony was filled with heartfelt tributes from family, friends, and members of volunteer organizations with whom Jaidyn was involved.

Elaine Clark, Jaidyn’s mother, shared her grief with those in attendance, recalling the “precious memories” she created with her daughter. She expressed her deep loss, stating, “I miss your hugs and kisses and you telling me that you love me. I miss every single little thing about you, Jaidyn.”

Jaidyn’s younger brother, Kenley, aged 12, also spoke during the service. He described the special bond they shared and the unwavering support she provided, saying, “Jaidyn was like glitter. She always shined hope and happiness into everybody who met her.” Kenley reminisced about the times they spent together, particularly during his cheer competitions, where she would cheer him on with infectious enthusiasm.

Legacy of Compassion and Community Involvement

The impact of Jaidyn’s loss extended beyond her family to the various volunteer groups she dedicated her time to. Louise Little, from the DICE project, highlighted Jaidyn’s commitment to helping others, noting, “When others turned away, she stepped forward.” Louise expressed that they had “big plans” for Jaidyn in the charity, emphasizing her ability to listen and provide support when it was needed most.

Reverend Ian McKee, who officiated the funeral, echoed the sentiments of the community, stating that Jaidyn was “loved deeply and adored absolutely.” He remarked on the devastation of her untimely death, which has “shocked the whole community right to the core.”

As the community continues to grieve, the focus now shifts to the legal proceedings that will follow. The charges against the 30-year-old man serve as a reminder of the devastating consequences of dangerous driving, leaving families and friends to navigate the painful aftermath of such tragedies.

The summer holidays present unique challenges for parents and guardians aiming to keep their children engaged while balancing work commitments. According to Childline, the UK’s leading children’s charity, effective planning is essential but may not always account for unexpected events such as illness or changes in childcare availability.

Understanding the Parental Dilemma

Many parents find themselves navigating a difficult landscape during the summer months. The need to maintain a professional life while ensuring children remain entertained can create significant stress. Even with a robust support system, unforeseen circumstances can disrupt the best-laid plans.

To address these challenges, Childline has released a series of recommendations aimed at helping parents manage their children’s time constructively. The organization emphasizes the importance of planning enjoyable activities that not only entertain but also promote learning and development.

Practical Suggestions for Summer Activities

Childline suggests various activities that parents can utilize to keep their children engaged throughout the holidays. These include creative arts and crafts, outdoor games, and educational outings. Such activities not only provide entertainment but also foster skills that are valuable for children’s growth.

Parents are encouraged to explore local resources, such as community centers and libraries, which often host summer programs. Engaging with these local initiatives can offer children opportunities for social interaction and learning in a structured environment.

Moreover, the charity highlights the significance of involving children in the planning process. By allowing kids to choose activities or suggest outings, they feel more invested and excited about their summer schedule. This collaborative approach can lead to a more enjoyable experience for both parents and children.

While managing expectations is crucial, Childline reminds parents that flexibility is key. If a planned activity falls through, having backup options can help alleviate stress and keep the summer experience enjoyable.

As the summer holidays approach, parents are encouraged to take proactive steps in their planning while remaining adaptable to the evolving needs of their children. With the right strategies in place, the summer can be a time of joy and exploration rather than a source of anxiety.