Up to 1,000 could die from flu as HSE warns at-risk groups to get jabs

Up to 1,000 people could die from influenza this winter, according to a study carried out by the HSE.

The research formed part of a Europe-wide investigation which estimates between 200 and 500 people die in Ireland each year from flu-related illness.

Those most at risk include people over the age of 65, pregnant women, and anybody with long-term illness.

Dr Brenda Corcoran, head of the HSE’s national immunisation office, stressed the serious nature of the illness and urged those in at-risk groups to get vaccinated.

She said: “The vaccine is the best defence against flu, yet every year many people in the at-risk groups fail to get vaccinated and so put themselves at risk of serious illness or even death.”

National uptake figures show almost 60% of those aged 65 and over with either a medical or GP card received the vaccine in 2012.

This figure is considerably lower than the World Health Organization target of 75%.

Dr Corcoran also explains that it is important to get vaccinated each year because virus strains are constantly changing.

The vaccine is administered free of charge for those in at-risk groups, those with a medical or GP card, and healthcare workers.

For more information, pick up a leaflet from your local GP, pharmacist, or local health office.

* See immunisation.ie or www.hse.ie