Slap on the sunscreen this June Bank Holiday weekend-Cork

HSE South West is encouraging everyone in Cork to enjoy the June bank holiday weekend safely, by protecting your skin from the sun and knowing your local healthcare options.

Skin cancer is now the most common cancer in Ireland, with more than 11,000 cases diagnosed every year. Yet almost all cases are preventable and simple, everyday actions can significantly reduce the risk of skin cancer.

Dr Anne Sheahan, HSE South West Regional Director of Public Health said: “Sunburn is not just prickly and painful - it is visible evidence of skin damage that accumulates over time. We want young people, parents, schools, sports clubs and workplaces to make sun protection a daily habit, not just something we grab on hotter days. Check the UV Index daily and you’ll see how easy it is to burn – even on cloudy days.”

Follow the SunSmart 5 S’s:

• Slip on clothing that covers your skin
• Slop on sunscreen (SPF 30+ for adults, 50+ for kids)
• Slap on a wide-brimmed hat
• Seek shade between 11am and 3pm
• Slide on sunglasses, preferably wraparound style

Alongside these safety tips, people are encouraged to think about all their healthcare options before going to the Emergency Department. If you or a loved one is seriously ill or injured, please call 999/112 or make your way to an Emergency Department. However, if your injury or illness isn’t critical or urgent - there are a range of local options available. Many health services will be open over the weekend, including pharmacies, Injury Units and GP Out-of-Hours service SouthDoc.

Sonya Cotter, HSE South West Manger for Cork North and East said:

“Whether you’re staying close to home, visiting family, or travelling with friends - I hope everyone has lovely plans for the bank holiday weekend. Just remember to protect your skin from the sun and take care on the cliffs, mountains, near water and especially when swimming.

“If you become unwell or if you have an urgent, but less serious need for healthcare, please visit one of our Injury Units and help us keep Emergency Departments for those who need them most.”

Injury units treat injuries that are not life-threatening, such as broken bones, dislocations, sprains, wounds, scalds and minor burns. This weekend, the following injury units will be available in Cork:

Mercy Injury Unit Gurranabraher at St Mary’s Health Campus Gurranabraher, open 8am-8pm and available to those aged 10 and older

Mallow Injury Unit, open 8am-8pm, and available to those aged five and older

Bantry Injury Unit, open 8am-8pm, and available to those aged five and older

In addition, the Irish Life Health expresscare clinic is available to treat minor injuries on the same terms as the HSE injury units. It is open from 10am to 8pm for those aged 12 months and over.

Oher options for non-emergency healthcare over the June bank holiday weekend include:

• Self-care – Have a well-stocked medicine cabinet for common ailments
• Your local pharmacist: www.hse.ie/eng/services/list/2/pharmacy/
• Your GP (fill routine prescriptions ahead of the bank holiday weekend)
• South Doc, the GP Out-of-Hours service is on 0818 355 999