Limerick people advised to avail of flu vaccine over increase in influenza cases
PEOPLE in Limerick, Clare and North Tipperary are being advised to avail of the flu vaccine, following a rise in influenza cases in the region.
To reduce the risk of severe illness, the Department of Public Health Mid-West is advising the public to avail of the flu vaccine, following an increasing incidence of influenza in the Mid-West.
According to provisional data, there have been 101 flu cases in the Mid-West since the beginning of October, and 14 new cases between November 20 and 26.
As the flu season is here earlier this year, they are concerned about the combined impact of COVID-19, influenza, RSV, and other respiratory viruses which will add increased pressures on hospitals and General Practice. Additionally, rates may rise more quickly over the Christmas period.
A highly infectious illness that affects all age groups, the flu can result in serious disease and death for the most vulnerable, the elderly and those with weak immune systems.
The flu vaccine is available for free for those aged 50 and older, aged less than 50 with a long-term illness that increases your risk of developing complications of influenza, aged 2 to 17 years, healthcare workers, who are pregnant, living in a nursing home or other long-term care facility, or those in regular contact with pigs, poultry, or waterfowl.