HSE urging Carlow people to get flu vaccine as cases and hospitalisations on the rise

People in Carlow are being urged to get their flu vaccine as cases and hospitalisations continue to rise across the country.

The HSE says influenza activity has increased in recent weeks and is expected to rise further in the coming weeks. Free flu vaccines are available from participating GPs, pharmacies and community health centres across Carlow as part of the Winter Vaccination Programme.

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Dr Carmel Mullaney, Regional Director of Public Health with HSE Dublin and South East, said now is the time to get protected.

"Every winter brings an increase in seasonal illnesses such as flu. Already, we are seeing higher numbers of flu cases across the Dublin and South East region compared to last year," she said.

"While these illnesses are unpleasant but mild for many, they can be very serious for older adults, young children and people with long-term health conditions. Flu has started to circulate in the community and will continue to increase over the coming weeks.

"We urge those who are eligible to get vaccinated as it remains the best protection against serious illness and hospitalisation."

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The flu vaccine is free for everyone aged 60 and over, as well as children aged 2 to 17, pregnant women, carers, healthcare workers and people with certain long-term health conditions.

Parents are also being reminded that the children's nasal spray vaccine is safe, effective and painless, and available from GPs and pharmacies across the county.

The HSE is also advising people to help reduce the spread of illness by staying home if unwell, washing hands regularly and keeping indoor spaces ventilated.

For more information, including where to get the flu vaccine in Carlow, visit www.hse.ie/flu