Winter vaccines available in Leitrim pharmacies from this week 

COVID-19 and flu vaccines will be available in more than 850 pharmacies across the country from this week, including Leitrim. 

Irish Pharmacy Union (IPU) is urging people to register for a vaccination early this year, stating that the earlier people get vaccinated, they will protect themselves and the wider community from spreading the illness.

Speaking in anticipation of the upcoming winter season, Dr Susan O’Dwyer, IPU’s Head of Professional Services, said, “It is important that we top up our winter protection. By protecting yourself, you are protecting those around you. 

“Everyone should be aware that the flu vaccination, for instance, is required annually and that there is no guarantee that you will gain any protection from previous vaccinations. Annual vaccination is important because flu viruses are constantly changing, and immunity from vaccination declines over time. 

“Equally, the protection from previous doses or a COVID-19 infection may weaken over time. Booster doses help boost your antibodies and give you good protection from becoming seriously ill or needing to go to hospital if you get COVID-19.”

Dr Susan said that respiratory infections, including flu, each year cause significant pressure on the Irish health service. Last year, 4,604 people were hospitalised, with a sizable percentage of those coming from medically vulnerable and over-65 age groups. In addition, 198 people died last year alone from influenza-related illness. 

“By receiving your flu and COVID-19 vaccines, you can reduce your risk of complications from these infections and also help alleviate pressure on our health system”, she said.

Children’s Vaccines

This year, IPU is also urging parents to register children for the nasal flu vaccine, free of charge for all children aged 2 to 12 years and those aged 13 to 17 who are more at risk of flu. 

IPU’s Head of Professional Services says that flu is a severe respiratory infection, and what many people do not realise is that it disproportionately affects children. 

“Children are twice as likely as adults to catch the flu, and in the past ten years in Ireland, almost 5,000 children have been admitted to hospital with flu complications. Sadly, almost 200 children have had treatment in intensive care, and 40 children have died.

“Flu vaccines for children have been available free of charge for several years, but uptake has been low. Parents or children concerned about the vaccine should speak to their pharmacist, who can provide advice and guidance. The nasal flu vaccine is given as a simple spray in each nostril. This quick and easy procedure is not distressing for children.”

Dr Susan concluded by re-emphasising the importance of children receiving the vaccine. 

“Children with chronic health conditions are at risk of serious complications from the flu. In some cases where a child catches the flu, it can lead to pneumonia, bronchitis, and encephalitis (inflammation of the brain). 

“Please take the opportunity to avail of the flu vaccine for your child to minimise these risks”, she said.