The HSE is urging people in Galway to get the flu vaccine this winter season, to protect themselves and others as case numbers rise.
Influenza activity in Ireland is continuing to increase, with case and hospitalisation numbers both rising in the last week, according to new data from the HSE Health Protection Surveillance Centre (HPSC).
Case numbers increased from 144 in the last week of October to 174 last week. The highest number of cases this winter season to date was recorded among adults aged 65 years and older.
The number of influenza hospitalisations also increased, from 22 at the end of last month to 48 at the start of November. Different types of Influenza A and Influenza B viruses have been detected already this season.
According to Dr. Áine McNamara, Regional Director of Public Health HSE West and North West region, “Flu has started to circulate in the community and will continue to increase over the coming weeks.”
“If you’re eligible for the flu vaccine, now’s the time to act. You can get your flu vaccine from your GP or pharmacist. Protect yourself and your loved ones, book your flu vaccine today and help keep yourself and your community safe and well this winter.”
The HSE is offering free flu vaccines at participating GP clinics, pharmacies, and community health centres in Galway.
HSE vaccination teams will also provide the flu vaccine for people living in residential care facilities, including nursing homes, as well as to housebound patients.
The children’s nasal spray flu vaccine is also available for free for all children aged 2 to 17 years from participating GPs and pharmacies. The nasal spray flu vaccine is safe, effective, and painless.
Who should get the free flu vaccine
The flu vaccine is strongly recommended and free for:
- Everyone aged 60 years and older
- People with underlying medical conditions
- 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
