Public Health Mid-West are asking the people to get the flu vaccine this season

The Department of Public Health Mid-West is warning the public of an increase in flu in the region. 

According to provisional data, there have been 101 flu cases in the Mid-West since the start of October. 

Fourteen new cases were reported in the last week of November. 

However, they say this just a fraction of true number as most cases are not tested. 

In a statement issued this week, a spokesperson for the department said: 

"We are currently experiencing an earlier flu season, and we are concerned about the combined impact of COVID-19, influenza, RSV and other respiratory viruses. 

"This will add increased pressure on hospitals and General Practice with increased attendance from patients who are ill. 

Public Health Mid-west say the rise is due to people socialising during the Christmas season. 

They are advising the public to get the flu vaccine. 

"We are concerned about the negative and disruptive impact on healthcare settings, e.g. nursing homes, where an outbreak occurs.

Flu is a highly infectious illness that affects all age groups and can result in serious disease and death for the most vulnerable, the elderly and those with weak immune systems.

 "The flu vaccine is safe and effective in reducing the risk of serious infection, and we recommend it both for adults and children in the categories below," said the spokesperson.

The vaccine is free to those in the following categories: 

·       aged 50 and older

·       aged less than 50 with a long term illness that increases your risk of developing complications of influenza

·       aged 2 to 17 years (This age group is offered the nasal flu vaccine)

·       a healthcare worker

·       pregnant

·       living in a nursing home or other long-term care facility

·       in regular contact with pigs, poultry or waterfowl