Appeals for people to take action in a bid to prevent spread of flu for the Christmas season
With the Christmas season upon us, appeals are being made for everyone to follow the HSE’s advice and take steps to prevent the spread of the flu over the coming days and weeks.
Minister for Health Simon Harris said: “I would appeal to everyone to follow the HSE’s advice over the coming days and weeks on how to recognise the symptoms of flu, what to do if flu is suspected and on how to prevent it spreading between people. I’d also like to remind people that it is not too late to get the flu vaccine.”
He said:“The advice from doctors is that most people who get the flu, unless they are in at risk group, can get better themselves at home. The HSE is advising that anyone who gets flu should stay at home, rest, drink plenty of fluids and use over-the-counter remedies like paracetamol to ease symptoms. Anyone in one of the high-risk groups should contact their GP if they develop influenza symptoms. If you need to visit your GP or the Emergency Department, please phone first to explain that you might have flu. I would encourage everyone to log onto to www.undertheweather.ie for advice, tips, information and videos on getting over flu and other common illnesses.”
He said: “I would like to thank the HSE for the work done on this issue so far this winter. I am being kept up to date regularly in relation to the flu and the situation continues to be closely monitored."
The uptake by Health Care Workers in acute hospitals to the end of October was 34.5%, which is higher than the total uptake last winter. So far over 900,000 vaccines have been distributed, an increase of 109,000 on last year and the uptake rate in over-65s to date is 61.9% - an increase of 3% on the same period last year.
The following groups of at-risk people should be vaccinated against seasonal influenza:
· Everyone aged 65 years and over
· Anyone over six months of age with a long term illness requiring regular medical follow-up such as chronic lung disease, chronic heart disease, diabetes or those with lower immunity due to disease or treatment · Pregnant women
· Residents of nursing homes and other long stay facilities
· Healthcare workers
The vaccine and consultation are free for those with a Medical Card or GP Visit Card. Those without a Medical Card or GP Visit Card will be charged a consultation fee.
Those aged 18 years or older in at-risk groups may attend either their GP or pharmacist for vaccination and those under 18 years should attend their GP.
Seasonal flu vaccines are safe and have been given for more than 60 years to millions of people across the world. Reactions are generally mild and serious side effects are very rare.
The ‘Be Winter Ready’ leaflet is aimed at older people and people with health needs. There are two main messages
is aimed at older people and people with health needs.
1. Advice on keeping well and warm, staying safe in cold and icy conditions and on preventing falls.
2. The importance of influenza immunisation.
The advice is common sense in nature and is something we can all do–
· Keep warm, eat well and avoid unnecessary travel.
· Have sufficient supplies of food and of any prescription medicines.
· Keep active indoors
· Have sufficient fuel supplies to maintain adequate heating in your home
· Ask relatives and neighbours for help if you need it, and
· Keep their phone numbers on a list beside your phone.
There is also a reminder, reiterated by the Minister at the 'Be Winter Ready' launch on 8 November, for people to check on their older relatives and neighbours.