HSE urges at-risk groups to get seasonal flu vaccine
The HSE warned that the flu can be a very serious illness, particularly for older people or those who have a long-term illness and said the following at-risk people need to be vaccinated:
* Everyone aged 65 years and over.
* Anyone over six months of age with a long-term illness requiring regular medical follow-up such as chronic lung disease, chronic heart disease or diabetes .
* Pregnant women.
* Those with lower immunity due to disease or treatment.
* Children or teenagers on long-term aspirin therapy.
* Residents of nursing homes and other long stay facilities.
* Healthcare workers and carers.
Based on advice from the World Health Organization (WHO), this year’s seasonal flu vaccine, available from GPs and pharmacists, protects against three common flu virus strains including the H1N1 (swine flu) strain, which is still circulating.
The HSE stressed that it is important for those in the at-risk groups who were vaccinated last year to be vaccinated again as the immunity only lasts for up to 12 months.
New regulations have been introduced by the Government to allow pharmacists to give the flu vaccine. It is available free from GPs and pharmacists to all those in the at-risk groups.
Anyone with a medical card or GP-visit card will not be charged to visit the doctor or pharmacist for the vaccine.
The HSE said the seasonal flu vaccine is different from the Pandemrix vaccine used during the swine flu pandemic.
It is investigating possible links between Pandemrix and narcolepsy in young people.
Dr Brenda Corcoran, the head of the HSE’s National Immunisation Office, said that the vaccine is the best defence against flu.
“Flu is very infectious and can cause potentially serious illnesses especially for older people, those who have a chronic illness and pregnant women.
“This year’s seasonal flu vaccine can be given at any stage of pregnancy and also protects the baby.”
