Cork TD encourages public to consider getting flu and Covid vaccines

Minister for public health, wellbeing and the national drugs strategy, Colm Burke is urging people to protect themselves this winter by availing of the “quick and easy” flu and Covid-19 vaccines.

The free vaccines are available to be administered to eligible candidates from participating GPs and pharmacies, and are also available to healthcare workers at vaccination clinics in many workplaces.

The incidence of flu are highest in those aged one to four years, followed by those aged 80 and above.

According to figures provided by the Department of Health, notified influenza cases increased from 166 cases in week 47 to 277 cases in week 48.

Mr Burke said that keeping up to date with vaccines, practicing good respiratory etiquette and staying home when sick are the main actions people should adhere to.

“By getting vaccinated we're helping prevent the spread of [the] flu and Covid-19 in our communities, which should also lighten the load on our health services during the winter," he said. 

“Young children are particularly susceptible to severe illness from [the] flu, therefore, I urge parents to consider vaccinating their children - the influenza vaccine for children is administered as a nasal spray, which is quick and painless.” 

See www2.hse.ie/screening-and-vaccinations for more.