HSE Dublin And Midlands Launches Winter Vaccine Programme

Flu and COVID-19 vaccines are now available to help protect people from serious illness this winter.

The HSE Dublin and Midlands’ has today launched its Winter Vaccination Programme, with flu and COVID-19 vaccines now available to help protect people from serious illness this winter.

Last winter, 25,000 confirmed cases of flu were reported in Ireland, with almost 6,000 people hospitalised and 185 admitted to an intensive care unit (ICU). There were over 300 deaths among people with confirmed flu.

This autumn/winter, everyone aged 60 years and older, and people with certain underlying medical conditions or a weakened immune system, are recommended to get both the flu and COVID-19 vaccines.

All healthcare workers, pregnant women and children aged 2 to 17 years are recommended to get the flu vaccine.

Flu and COVID-19 vaccines are available free of charge to eligible people and can be given at the same appointment.

Vaccination is available through participating GPs and pharmacies, while HSE vaccination teams will provide vaccines to residents of nursing homes and other residential care facilities and to people who are housebound.

Dedicated flu vaccination clinics will also be available for healthcare workers. The free nasal flu vaccine is available for children aged 2 to 17 years through participating GPs and pharmacies, with some children also offered the vaccine through school-based programmes.

Speaking about the programme, Dr Ian Hosein, Consultant Medical Microbiologist, Midlands Regional Hospital Tullamore, said: “Too often, people underestimate the seriousness of flu and COVID-19. Every year, we see patients become very unwell from illnesses that vaccination can help prevent. Vaccination remains our best defence against flu and COVID-19. By getting vaccinated, you are not only protecting yourself from serious illness, but also helping to protect your family, friends and community. As we head into the winter months, I would encourage everyone who is eligible to get their vaccines as soon as possible.”

Kate Killeen White, Regional Executive Officer, HSE Dublin and Midlands, said: “Winter is a busy time for our health services. By getting your flu and COVID-19 vaccines, you can help protect yourself from serious illness and support our healthcare teams to care for those who need it most.”