Episodios

  • Take 2!! Success and Failings of RSV Immunisation in Winter 2024/2025
    Jul 3 2025

    Corrected audio!

    In the final episode of Season 12, Sheena extends gratitude to Salin Plus and dives into the RSV Pathfinder Program in Ireland. She discusses the importance of RSV immunisation for infants, the success of the new monoclonal antibody Nirsevimab, and the implementation hurdles faced by public health authorities. Sheena highlights the delays in policy execution, the need for better coordination between the Department of Health and HSE, and the overall impact on infant healthcare in Ireland. She underscores the necessity of early planning, transparent communication, and the adoption of implementation science to improve public health responses. She concludes with a call for better leadership and organisation to ensure effective healthcare delivery.

    00:00 Introduction and Gratitude

    00:22 Overview of RSV and the Pathfinder Program

    02:08 Challenges with Previous Immunisations

    03:06 Introduction of Nirsevimab and Initial Excitement

    04:47 Implementation Delays and Frustrations

    08:38 Lessons and Recommendations for the Future

    13:35 Current Status and Final Thoughts

    Season 12 Partnership – Salin Plus (available here!)

    I am so thrilled to be partnering with Salin plus This 100% natural salt therapy device is suitable for both adults and children! Tune in to learn more!

    Support this Podcast

    Simply following and reviewing this podcast can make a huge difference! If you enjoy this episode I would be so grateful if you could follow or subscribe to the show!

    #rsv #rsvimmunisation #respiratorysynctialvirus #respiratoryhealth #nirsevimab #infectiousdisease #immunisationrates #vaccinereality #irishhealth #irishhealthcare #pharmacist #patientadvocate #sheenamitchell #healthcare #healthcarepodcast #healthtips #preventativehealth #healthsystem #implementationscience


    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Más Menos
    16 m
  • Measles warnings for holidays...but what about right here?!
    Jun 25 2025
    Understanding Measles and the risks travelling or staying at home!


    In this episode, Sheena Mitchell, a pharmacist and mom of three, delves into the critical topic of measles. She discusses the highly contagious nature of the virus, its transmission, symptoms, and severe complications like pneumonia and encephalitis. She emphasizes the alarming resurgence of measles in Ireland and Europe, largely due to decreased vaccination rates amid vaccine hesitancy and misinformation. Sheena underscores the importance of achieving a 95% vaccination rate to ensure herd immunity and prevent outbreaks. She also highlights the significance of the MMR vaccine in protecting not just individuals but entire communities.


    00:00 Introduction to the Wonder Care Podcast

    00:17 Understanding Measles: Symptoms and Transmission

    02:08 Complications and Risks of Measles

    04:04 The Importance of Vaccination

    04:38 Current Measles Outbreaks and Statistics

    05:04 Addressing Vaccine Hesitancy and Misinformation

    06:51 Protecting Vulnerable Populations

    08:07 Global and Local Measles Trends

    10:14 Promoting Vaccination and Final Thoughts


    Season 12 Partnership – Salin Plus (available here!)

    I am so thrilled to be partnering with Salin plus This 100% natural salt therapy device is suitable for both adults and children! Tune in to learn more!


    Support this Podcast

    Simply following and reviewing this podcast can make a huge difference! If you enjoy this episode I would be so grateful if you could follow or subscribe to the show!


    #measles #measlesireland #mmr #mmrvaccine #measleseurope #complicationsofmeasles #infectiousdisease #immunisationrates #antivax #vaccinereality #irishhealth #irishhealthcare #pharmacist #patientadvocate #sheenamitchell #healthcare #healthcarepodcast #healthtips #preventativehealth

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Más Menos
    12 m
  • Climate Change is Intensifying Hay Fever in Ireland
    Jun 21 2025
    How Climate Change is Intensifying Hay Fever in Ireland


    In this episode, Sheena explains how climate change is worsening hay fever in Ireland. The discussion covers the extended pollen seasons due to warmer and wetter climates, the increase in pollen counts fueled by higher carbon dioxide levels, and the introduction of new allergens like ragweed. Sheena also provides actionable advice on identifying and reporting ragweed, staying informed about pollen forecasts, and exploring advanced treatment options like immunomodulators. The episode emphasises the need for awareness and early action to mitigate the impact of climate change on hay fever.


    00:00 Introduction to the Wonder Care Podcast

    00:20 The Impact of Climate Change on Hay Fever

    01:10 Extended Pollen Seasons and High Pollen Counts

    02:29 New Allergens: The Rise of Ragweed

    04:47 Taking Action Against Ragweed

    06:30 Air Pollution and Its Role in Hay Fever

    08:11 Immunomodulators: A New Approach to Treatment

    10:28 Conclusion and Final Thoughts


    Season 12 Partnership – Salin Plus (available here!)

    I am so thrilled to be partnering with Salin plus This 100% natural salt therapy device is suitable for both adults and children! Tune in to learn more!


    Support this Podcast

    Simply following and reviewing this podcast can make a huge difference! If you enjoy this episode I would be so grateful if you could follow or subscribe to the show!


    #hayfever #ragweed #immunomodulators #salinplus #climatechange #globalwarming #irishhealth #irishhealthcare #pharmacist #patientadvocate #sheenamitchell #healthcare #healthcarepodcast #healthtips #preventativehealth

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Más Menos
    11 m
  • Ireland's Men's Health in the Spotlight
    Jun 11 2025

    In this episode, Sheena explains the importance of focusing on men's health, highlighting alarming statistics such as shorter life expectancy, high rates of disability, and homelessness among men. Sheena also discusses crucial direct health risks including smoking, alcohol misuse, and mental health challenges. Emphasising the value of early detection, she outlines the leading causes of death—cancers, cardiovascular, and respiratory diseases—providing symptom checks and prevention advice. She encourages men to utilize community pharmacies and various mental health resources to improve their well-being.


    00:00 Introduction to Men's Health

    00:50 Why Men's Health is a Priority

    01:31 Socioeconomic and Lifestyle Factors

    02:46 Direct Health Risks and Statistics

    05:48 Mental Health and Social Connections

    08:28 Cancer Awareness and Prevention

    13:15 Cardiovascular and Respiratory Health

    14:35 Conclusion and Final Thoughts


    Season 12 Partnership – Salin Plus (available here!)

    I am so thrilled to be partnering with Salin plus This 100% natural salt therapy device is suitable for both adults and children! Tune in to learn more!


    Support this Podcast

    Simply following and reviewing this podcast can make a huge difference! If you enjoy this episode I would be so grateful if you could follow or subscribe to the show!


    #connectingforhealth #menshealthweek #menshealth #cancer #circulatorydisease #cardiovasculardisease #menshealthrisks #menshealthprevention #irishhealth #irishhealthcare #pharmacist #patientadvocate #sheenamitchell #healthcare #healthcarepodcast #healthtips #preventativehealth #shouldertoshoulder

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Más Menos
    15 m
  • Hangover or Meningitis? Emma's Story.
    Jun 4 2025
    The Malone Family's Experience With Meningitis: A Closer Look


    In this episode, Sheena is joined by Wayne and Tricia Malone, who share a harrowing experience involving their daughter Emma and her battle with bacterial meningitis. The Malones discuss their family background, Emma's initial symptoms and ensuing health crisis, the hospital's responses, and the critical decisions that saved her life. They highlight the importance of parental instinct, the need for awareness of meningitis symptoms, and the significance of timely medical intervention. Furthermore, they emphasize the protective power of vaccinations and share their efforts to raise awareness and funds for Act for Meningitis, a charity providing crucial support for affected individuals and families.


    00:00 Introduction and Family Background

    00:46 The Onset of Symptoms

    02:57 Emergency and Hospitalization

    04:36 ICU and Initial Treatment

    08:35 Recovery and Complications

    16:06 Reflections and Parental Concerns

    17:16 Health Concerns and Meningitis Awareness

    18:04 Festival Risks and Teen Health

    20:25 Raising Awareness and Charity Efforts

    24:04 The Importance of Vaccination

    27:44 Living with the Aftermath

    30:16 Final Thoughts and Key Takeaways


    Find ACT for Meningitis here! and find them on instagram over here!


    Season 12 Partnership – Salin Plus (available here!)

    I am so thrilled to be partnering with Salin plus This 100% natural salt therapy device is suitable for both adults and children! Tune in to learn more!


    Support this Podcast

    Simply following and reviewing this podcast can make a huge difference! If you enjoy this episode I would be so grateful if you could follow or subscribe to the show!



    #meningitis #actformeningitis #meningitisvaccines #survivingmeningitis #meningitissurvivor #irishhealth #irishhealthcare #pharmacist #patientadvocate #sheenamitchell #healthcare #healthcarepodcast #healthtips #preventativehealth #actformeningitis

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Más Menos
    38 m
  • Pollen Proof in 10 mins!
    May 28 2025
    Tips and Therapies for Better Living through hay fever season!


    In this episode, Sheena, a community pharmacist, dives into effective strategies for preventing and managing hay fever. She stresses the importance of prevention alongside treatment, sharing practical tips to minimise pollen exposure and enhance quality of life during pollen season. Sheena introduces 'Salin Plus,' a unique air filtration device that combines air purification with halotherapy using microcrystalline salt particles. She also recommends checking pollen levels on the Met Éireann website, keeping windows closed on high pollen days, and employing various methods to reduce pollen presence in your living environment. The episode is packed with actionable advice to help you and your family stay comfortable and symptom-free.



    Products mentioned in this episode:
    • Salin Plus
    • Hay Max balm
    • Fusion Allergy Range
    • Optase Range
    • Becodefence
    • Hay band accupressure allergy relief
    • Met Eireann Pollen forecasts


    00:00 Introduction to Hay Fever

    00:49 Understanding Hay Fever Symptoms

    01:30 The Importance of Prevention

    01:51 Effective Sleep and Hay Fever

    02:20 Introducing Salin Plus

    03:09 Benefits of Halotherapy

    05:25 Practical Tips for Hay Fever Prevention

    07:44 Keeping Your Home Pollen-Free

    10:05 Final Thoughts and Goodbye



    Season 12 Partnership – Salin Plus (available here!)

    I am so thrilled to be partnering with Salin plus This 100% natural salt therapy device is suitable for both adults and children! Tune in to learn more!



    Support this Podcast

    Simply following and reviewing this podcast can make a huge difference! If you enjoy this episode I would be so grateful if you could follow or subscribe to the show!


    #hayfever #hayfeverprevention #hayfeverrelief #hayfevertreatment #pollenproof #allergies #pollenallergy #pollen #asthma #respiratoryhealth #copd #irishhealth #irishhealthcare #pharmacist #patientadvocate #sheenamitchell #healthcare #healthcarepodcast #healthtips #preventativehealth

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Más Menos
    9 m
  • Health in all policies - Endometriosis - Beyond the Symptoms
    May 21 2025

    Beyond the Symptoms


    In this episode of A WonderCare podcast, host Sheena Mitchell, a pharmacist, delves into the lived experience of Doireann Barrett, who shares the profound and widespread impacts of endometriosis beyond reproductive health. Doireann discusses the challenges of finding specialised care in Ireland, the significant financial burdens imposed by chronic illness, and the systemic failings in healthcare and other public services. Despite facing numerous adversities, Doireann continues to advocate for better support and understanding for endometriosis patients. Sheena and Doireann emphasize the need for a 'health in all policies' approach, highlighting how interconnected factors such as housing and financial stability influence overall well-being. The episode ends with a call for listeners to hold elected officials accountable for implementing comprehensive health policies.


    00:00 Introduction and Host Introduction

    00:22 Impact of Chronic Disease on Life

    00:53 Challenges in Endometriosis Treatment

    02:42 Financial and Social Struggles

    08:04 Housing and Healthcare System Failures

    18:13 Advocacy and Support Resources

    25:03 Conclusion and Call to Action



    Season 12 Partnership – Salin Plus (available here!)

    I am so thrilled to be partnering with Salin plus This 100% natural salt therapy device is suitable for both adults and children! Tune in to learn more!


    Support this Podcast

    Simply following and reviewing this podcast can make a huge difference! If you enjoy this episode I would be so grateful if you could follow or subscribe to the show!


    #healthinallpolicies #populationhealth #determinantsofhealth #endometriosis #endometriosissymptoms #endometriosisIreland #endometriosisawareness #endo #womenshealth #parentinggirls #irishhealth #irishhealthcare #pharmacist #patientadvocate #sheenamitchell #healthequity

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Más Menos
    26 m
  • Living with Endometriosis - Doireann Barrett - The Physical and Mental Burden
    May 14 2025

    Endometriosis: Doireann's Story of Physical and Emotional Impact


    In this episode, Sheena Mitchell, a Pharmacist, welcomes Doireann Barrett to discuss the profound physical and emotional effects of endometriosis on her life. Doireann shares her journey with endometriosis, from experiencing symptoms since infancy, through misdiagnosis, to the challenges of living with a chronic condition. The conversation highlights the stigma, lack of understanding, and systemic failures in the healthcare system, emphasising the importance of better support and diagnosis for individuals with chronic health conditions. Tune in next week for a discussion on living with chronic diseases and the systemic impacts on one's life.


    00:00 Introduction to A WonderCare Podcast

    01:16 Doireann Barrett Shares Her Journey

    03:10 Early Symptoms and Misdiagnosis

    07:07 Living with Endometriosis: The Struggles

    12:57 Navigating the Healthcare System

    16:09 The Impact on Daily Life

    21:01 Ongoing Challenges and Advocacy

    30:41 Conclusion and Next Week's Preview



    Season 12 Partnership – Salin Plus (available here!)

    I am so thrilled to be partnering with Salin plus This 100% natural salt therapy device is suitable for both adults and children! Tune in to learn more!


    Support this Podcast

    Simply following and reviewing this podcast can make a huge difference! If you enjoy this episode I would be so grateful if you could follow or subscribe to the show!


    #endometriosis #endometriosissymptoms #endometriosisIreland #endometriosisawareness #endo #womenshealth #parentinggirls #irishhealth #irishhealthcare #pharmacist #patientadvocate #sheenamitchell #healthequity #healthpodcast


    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Más Menos
    32 m