HSE Launches Flu Campaign

The Health Service Executive (HSE) has launched its annual flu vaccination campaign.

Over 65s, at-risk groups and pregnant women are being urged to get vaccinated against influenza before the beginning of the season.

The announcement comes amid concerns from the HSE that not enough people are availing of the service.

Figures show only 56.5% of people aged 65 and over who hold a medical card or GP visit card received the flu vaccine during the 2011-2012 flu season.

HSE classifies as at-risk everyone aged 65 years and over, anyone over six months of age with a long term illness requiring regular medical follow-up, pregnant women, young people on long-term aspirin therapy and residents of nursing homes and other long stay facilities.

Healthcare workers including doctors, nurses, therapists and carers are also strongly advised to get the vaccine.

Head of the HSE’s National Immunisation Office, Dr Brenda Corcoran said: "The flu vaccine cannot give you the flu as it does not contain any live flu virus and all those at risk should get vaccinated as soon as possible this year to make sure that they are protected.

"The symptoms of flu usually develop over a matter of a few hours and include a high temperature, sore muscles, dry cough, headache and sore throat. Flu is different from the common cold, which tends to come on more gradually and usually includes a runny nose and a normal temperature.

"Flu is spread by coughing and sneezing so people should cover their nose and mouth with a tissue, disposing of the tissue as soon as possible and washing their hands with soap and water as soon as possible to help prevent the spread of flu."

More information is available on the HSE dedicated immunisation website - www.immunisation.ie

(IT/GK)