Ireland’s winter vaccination programme is now underway, and the HSE is urging eligible people to arrange both their flu and COVID-19 vaccines. The HSE West and North West campaign highlights the importance of vaccination before seasonal viruses circulate more widely between October and April.
The advice is particularly important for older adults, people with underlying health conditions, pregnant women, children and healthcare workers. Both vaccines are free for eligible groups and may be given during the same appointment at participating GPs and pharmacies.
HSE winter vaccinations: who is advised to get protected?
The HSE recommends both vaccines for everyone aged 60 and over, as well as people aged six months and older who have an underlying medical condition or weakened immune system.
Flu vaccination is also advised for:
- Children aged 2 to 17 years
- Healthcare workers
- Pregnant women
Vaccination during pregnancy can reduce the risk of serious flu complications and helps protect babies during their first months of life.
Free nasal spray vaccine for children
Children aged 2 to 17 can receive a free, needle-free nasal spray flu vaccine through participating GPs and pharmacies. Some children will also be offered vaccination through school-based programmes. The HSE describes the nasal spray as safe and effective.
Why flu and COVID-19 vaccination matters
Flu is a highly infectious viral illness that can lead to pneumonia, bronchitis, sepsis and encephalitis. COVID-19 and flu are caused by different viruses, so receiving one vaccine does not protect against the other.
Last winter, almost 5,935 people in Ireland were hospitalised with laboratory-confirmed flu, while more than 2,000 were hospitalised with COVID-19. In the West and North West region, flu accounted for 1,335 hospitalisations and COVID-19 for 305. Most cases involved people aged 65 and older.
People aged 65 and over can receive an enhanced flu vaccine, which is designed to produce a stronger immune response and may provide improved protection against flu-related hospitalisation.
Vaccination access across the region
HSE vaccination teams will visit nursing homes and residential care facilities and provide vaccines to people who are housebound. Dedicated clinics will also be organised for healthcare workers.
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Where to find official vaccination guidance
People can check which vaccines are recommended by visiting the HSE’s COVID-19 and flu information pages, contacting HSELive on 1800 700 700, or speaking with a participating GP or pharmacy. Eligible people should arrange vaccination as soon as possible rather than waiting until winter illness becomes widespread.
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Key takeaway
HSE winter vaccinations remain the most effective way for eligible people to reduce the risk of serious flu and COVID-19 illness, hospitalisation and death. Protecting yourself also helps safeguard family members, patients and the wider community during the months ahead.
Article/Image Courtesy: HSE
