Free walk-in flu clinics for children in Clare this week
THE HSE has announced it will be holding free nasal flu vaccine walk-in clinics for children this week as a result of the increased circulation of the flu in communities.
In the run up to Christmas, the number of flu cases rose rapidly among all age groups - sparking an appeal for vigilance from public health doctors.
Those aged between 2 and 17 will be able to avail of the walk-in clinics which will run in Clare, Limerick and Tipperary this week.
The locations of the clinics in the Mid-West are:
*Ennis Primary Care Centre, Station Road, Ennis on December 28 from 10am – 2pm.
*The Great National South Court Hotel, Raheen, Limerick on December 27 from 11am – 4pm.
*Thurles Primary Care Centre, Mitchell Street, Thurles on December 28 from 11am – 3pm.
Dr Aparna Keegan, consultant in public health medicine at the HSE National Immunisation Office, commented: “We are urging all parents of young children to get their free nasal flu vaccine. Recent data has shown flu is circulating more widely in communities across the country. This is having a big impact on young children in particular.
“Getting the vaccine is the best way to protect young children from the effects of flu. We know children are more likely to spread the virus among themselves and their family, so getting the vaccine is doubly important. We want children and families to enjoy the Christmas period free from flu and illness,” Dr Keegan said.
The nasal vaccine is still available from participating GP practices and pharmacies. The HSE continues to offer children in Senior Infants and all children in primary-age special schools their free nasal spray flu vaccine in schools.
The number of confirmed influenza cases notified to HPSC has increased in the past week, with 283 confirmed influenza cases notified in week 49 (week ending December 10) and 170 cases reported in week 48 (week ending December 3). During week 49, 2023, influenza increased in almost all age groups but mainly in those aged 0-4 years.
Symptoms of flu in children can include high temperature, muscle pains, headache, and extreme tiredness. The flu vaccine gives children the best protection against flu.