People in high-risk groups are urged to get vaccinated against influenza, as the number of reported cases of influenza-like illness (ILI) in Ireland has increased in the past week.
Influenza is beginning to circulate in the community in Ireland. ILI rates have risen from 6.8 per 100,000 during week ending December 10th to 20.3 per 100,000 population during the week ended December 17th.
The Influenza Vaccination is now available at Athboy Family Practice
It is very important that at risk patients ensure they receive the vaccination. If you are 65 or over or have a long term medical condition you should also ask your doctor about the pneumococcal vaccine which protects against pneumonia.
Our arrangements for administration will be as follows:
The flu vaccine will be available without appointment on a walk in basis please contact reception for details.
The flu vaccine is also available by appointment anytime during surgery hours.
At-risk groups for the vaccine are:
- All those aged 65 years and older
- People including children with chronic illness requiring regular medical follow-up such as chronic lung disease, chronic heart disease, chronic neurological disorders, neurodevelopmental disorders and diabetes
- Those with lower immunity due to disease or treatment and all cancer patients
- All pregnant women. The vaccine can be given at any stage of pregnancy.
- Those with morbid obesity i.e. Body Mass Index ≥40
- Residents of nursing homes, old people’s homes and other long stay facilities
- Health care workers and carers of those in at-risk groups.
Vaccination remains the most effective means of preventing infection by seasonal influenza viruses and can reduce severe disease that can lead to hospitalisation and death. The vaccine takes two weeks to take effect once received. Anyone who gets flu should stay at home, rest, drink plenty of fluids and use over-the-counter remedies like paracetamol to ease symptoms. Advice, tips, information and videos on getting over flu and other common illnesses are available at a new HSE website, www.undertheweather.ie. Anyone in one of the high risk groups should contact their GP for vaccination
Source: http://www.hpsc.ie
The weekly influenza surveillance reports and further information on influenza and flu vaccine are available on the HPSC website.