Almost half of Irish adults worry about catching the flu, survey finds

Eva Osborne

Almost half of Irish adults (47 per cent) are worried about contracting the flu this winter and one in three are anxious about catching the common cold, according to new research from a pharmacy chain.

The survey of 1,000 people also found that 66 per cent of adults are planning or likely to get the flu vaccine this winter.

Lloyds Pharmacy said data from the 2023/24 season reveals a clear peak in vaccinations for at-risk groups during October (53.4 per cent), followed by a decline.

Last winter, over 4,000 people were hospitalised with the flu, and more than 7,000 required hospital treatment for Covid-19.

Lloyds said these numbers highlight the serious impact flu can have, particularly on the most vulnerable members of society, which includes those over 60, pregnant women, and individuals with underlying conditions such as chronic lung disease or diabetes.

The survey showed that preventive care is a priority for many Irish adults, with 77 per cent of those surveyed saying they regularly take supplements or do so more often in winter.

Over one in five adults trust their pharmacist’s recommendation on which vitamins or supplements to take.

Flu vaccines

The release of the survey results coincides with the start of pharmacy chain's winter vaccination programme.

The survey revealed 24 per cent of adults aged 55 and over have no plans to get the flu vaccine.

Superintendent pharmacist Denis O'Driscoll said: "We’re seeing a steady stream of bookings particularly for the flu and Covid-19 vaccines together. You can now book to get both your flu vaccination and Covid-19 booster at the same time.

"Flu vaccinations are crucial in helping the immune system develop antibodies to fight infection, offering protection against the most prevalent strains each season.

"For parents of young children, the nasal spray flu vaccine not only shields kids from potential complications but also helps protect the wider community. We all have a role to play in safeguarding each other this flu season."