The majority of people who receive a disability allowance believe mental health is the issue that affects them the most — ahead of any mobility or physical issue.

More needs to be done to ensure those with a disability are not excluded from society, according to support organisations.

The Disability Federation of Ireland says it hopes to “progress” talks with the Department of Social Protection on the issue of the high rate of refusal on applications for the disability allowance.

With reported cases of flu-like illnesses doubling in the past week, those at risk are being urged to get vaccinated.

Students were today warned to get MMR jabs as surging levels of mumps strike college campuses across the country.

HEALTH protection officials yesterday advised the elderly and those with severe illness to get vaccinated after a doubling of flu cases nationwide in the last fortnight.

THE country is on the brink of another measles epidemic, a public health specialist has warned.