HSE urges everyone eligible in Waterford to get flu vaccine this winter

Influenza cases and hospitalisations continue to rise

· Flu cases will continue to increase over the coming weeks

· There is still time to get your flu vaccine at participating GPs and pharmacies

· To prevent passing the flu on to others, stay at home if you are unwell

Influenza activity across the country is continuing to increase, with cases and hospitalisations both rising in the last week, according to new data from the HSE Health Protection Surveillance Centre (HPSC).

HSE Dublin and South East is offering free flu vaccines at participating GP clinics, pharmacies, and community health centres in Waterford as part of its Winter Vaccination Programme.

The flu vaccine is strongly recommended and free for:

· Everyone aged 60 years and older

· People with a health condition that puts them at higher risk from flu

· Healthcare workers (including students in healthcare and social care)

· All children aged 2-17 years

· Pregnant women (at any stage of pregnancy)

· Carers and household contacts of people at higher risk

· Residents of nursing homes and other long-stay facilities

· People with regular close contact with poultry, waterfowl or pigs

·

Dr Carmel Mullaney, Regional Director of Public Health, HSE Dublin and South East, said: “Every winter brings an increase in seasonal illnesses such as flu. Already, we are seeing higher numbers of flu cases across the Dublin and South East region compared to last year. While these illnesses are unpleasant but mild for many, they can be very serious for older adults, young children, and people with long term health conditions.

“Flu has started to circulate in the community and will continue to increase over the coming weeks. We urge those who are eligible to get vaccinated as it remains the best protection against serious illness and hospitalisation.”

The children’s nasal spray flu vaccine is also available for all children aged 2 to 17 years from participating GPs and pharmacies. The nasal spray flu vaccine is safe, effective, and painless.

Protect yourself and others

To protect yourself and your loved ones, it is important to take simple steps to reduce the spread of infection:

· Stay home if you are unwell and avoid close contact with others who have symptoms.

· Wash your hands regularly and cover coughs and sneezes.

· Keep indoor spaces well ventilated.

· Check in with vulnerable family members, friends, and neighbours during this busy period.

· If someone becomes ill, there are several options for care depending on their symptoms. Being prepared, and helping others to be prepared, ensures people receive the right care, in the right place, at the right time.

For more information about the flu vaccine, including where to get it, visit www.hse.ie/flu

ENDS

Issued by HSE Dublin and South East Press & Media

Media.dublinsoutheast@hse.ie

Notes to Editors

For the latest data and information on influenza, visit:
Integrated Reports - Health Protection Surveillance Centre
Respiratory Virus Notification Data Hub

Nationally during week 44 2025, influenza activity continued to rise. Case numbers increased from 144 in week 43 2025 to 174 in week 44 2025. The highest number of cases this winter season to date was recorded among adults aged 65 years and older.

The number of influenza hospitalisations also increased, from 22 in week 43 2025 to 48 in week 44 2025. Influenza A(H3), A(H1)pdm09 and influenza B viruses have all been detected this season.