Influenza activity across the country is continuing to increase, with cases and hospitalisations both rising in the last week, according to new data from the HSE Health Protection Surveillance Centre (HPSC).
HSE Dublin and South East is offering free flu vaccines at participating GP clinics, pharmacies, and community health centres in Dublin South and Wicklow as part of its Winter Vaccination Programme.
The flu vaccine is strongly recommended and free for:
- Everyone aged 60 years and older
- People with a health condition that puts them at higher risk from flu
- Healthcare workers (including students in healthcare and social care)
- All children aged 2-17 years
- Pregnant women (at any stage of pregnancy)
- Carers and household contacts of people at higher risk
- Residents of nursing homes and other long-stay facilities
- People with regular close contact with poultry, waterfowl or pigs
Dr Carmel Mullaney, Regional Director of Public Health, HSE Dublin and South East, said: “Every winter brings an increase in seasonal illnesses such as flu. Already, we are seeing higher numbers of flu cases across the Dublin and South East region compared to last year.
“While these illnesses are unpleasant but mild for many, they can be very serious for older adults, young children, and people with long term health conditions.
“Flu has started to circulate in the community and will continue to increase over the coming weeks. We urge those who are eligible to get vaccinated as it remains the best protection against serious illness and hospitalisation.”
The children’s nasal spray flu vaccine is also available for all children aged 2 to 17 years from participating GPs and pharmacies. The nasal spray flu vaccine is safe, effective, and painless.
Protect yourself and others
To protect yourself and your loved ones, it is important to take simple steps to reduce the spread of infection:
- Stay home if you are unwell and avoid close contact with others who have symptoms.
- Wash your hands regularly and cover coughs and sneezes.
- Keep indoor spaces well ventilated.
- Check in with vulnerable family members, friends, and neighbours during this busy period.
- If someone becomes ill, there are several options for care depending on their symptoms. Being prepared, and helping others to be prepared, ensures people receive the right care, in the right place, at the right time.
For more information about the flu vaccine, including where to get it, visit www.hse.ie/flu
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