Flu surge strains services in the North West
With influenza cases expected to remain high throughout January, the flu vaccine is sill available at several pharmacies in Leitrim for those 12 years of age and older.
The HSE in Sligo and Leitrim is currently managing a peak in influenza cases, as the virus continues to surge across the country.
Nationwide, flu cases are rising rapidly, with over 1,000 hospitalised due to the virus.
This marks a significant increase compared to 562 hospitalisations reported on December 24.
In the North West, health services are under considerable pressure, with very high rates of flu in the region.
A total of 166 patients have been admitted to hospitals across the area due to the virus.
In response, Sligo University Hospital and Letterkenny University Hospital have introduced mandatory mask wearing in their emergency departments to help curb the spread of flu.
Flu symptoms include a high temperature of 38 degrees or above, aches, pains, headache, sore throat and cough.
The HSE is urging eligible individuals to get vaccinated against the flu virus. The flu vaccine is available from October through to April.
In Leitrim, there are five pharmacies listed on the HSE website currently offering flu vaccines.
These are Boots in Carrick-on-Shannon, Cara Pharmacy in Ballinamore, Cara Pharmacy in Drumshanbo, Manor Chemists in Manorhamilton and RJS pharmacy in Drumshanbo.
Vaccines are available to those 12 years of age and older and it is advised to contact the pharmacy in advance to confirm availability.
More information on the influenza virus and vaccine is available here