Avoiding fluIt's the time of year when we should be thinking of getting the flu jab. It's particularly true for adults with asthma, who are considered a high-riskgroup for complications after contracting the influenza virus.
The Centers for Disease Control in the US recommend that people with asthma be vaccinated each year, yet few adults with asthma get their injections. If you need one you can ask your GP, who should administer it from the end of the month.
Lymphoma help
An new alliance hopes to support the millions of people around the world
who are living with cancer of the lymphatic system. The Lymphoma Coalition, an international non-profit networking organisation of lymphoma-patients' groups, has been set up to address gaps in awareness of lymphoma and its treatment; few groups currently support people with this form of cancer. You can get more details from www.lymphoma coalition.org.
Sponsored walk
A mini marathon with a difference takes place in Co Galway on Saturday.
For the over-70s only, and in aid of the Irish Lung Fibrosis Association, the
7.25 kilometre walk can be done in one go or in stages. It starts in Clonbur
forest and ends in the village of Cong.
You can get more information from Tom Figgis at 092-46165 or tomfiggis@eircom.net.
Managing migraine
Migraine Action Week, which is being held from next Monday until September 27th, aims to highlight the level of disability the condition causes
and let sufferers know that although it cannot be cured it can be managed.
The Migraine Association of Ireland is hosting a public information meeting
at the Royal Dublin Hotel at 7 p.m. on Thursday September 25th. Speakers
include Prof Peter Goadsby, who is a world authority on migraine. You should book your ticket (€7) in advance on 1850-200378.
Food safety
Recent outbreaks of listeria and E. coli have prompted the Food Safety Promotion Board to hold a series of public meetings on food safety. You
can register to attend one of them - in Dublin, Letterkenny, Sligo, Athlone, Galway, Kilkenny, Limerick or Cork - by contacting Evelyn O'Sullivan at 01-6636556 or safefood@ovation.ie
Don't panic
Almost a third of us suffer from panic attacks at some stage in our lives, according to Áine Tubridy, psychotherapist and author of When Panic Attacks (Newleaf, 16.99). She will give a one-day seminar at
the Royal Marine Hotel in Dún Laoghaire, Co Dublin, on Saturday, addressing what happens medically in a panic attack, what personal
dilemmas cause them and how to control them through breathing techniques, thought management, energy balancing and relaxation exercises. You can book a place for €90 on 086-8182825.
Compiled by Dr Muiris Houston and Sylvia Thompson
lifelines@irish-times.ie