HSE urges everyone eligible to get their flu vaccine this winter

The HSE has urged everyone who is eligible to get their flu vaccine this winter to do so. Influenza activity in Ireland is continuing to increase, with case and hospitalisation numbers both rising in the last week, according to new data from the HSE Health Protection Surveillance Centre (HPSC).

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

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. 

Dr Éamonn O’Moore, Director of National Health Protection, HSE said: “Every winter brings an increase in seasonal illnesses such as flu. While these illnesses are unpleasant but mild for many, they can be very serious for older adults, young children, and people with underlying health conditions. Flu has started to circulate in the community and will continue to increase over the coming weeks. Getting vaccinated remains the best protection against serious illness and hospitalisation.”

The HSE is offering free flu vaccines at participating GP clinics, pharmacies, and community health centres.

All healthcare workers are recommended to get the flu vaccine. Vaccination clinics will take place in many workplaces across the country. Healthcare workers can also get their vaccine in the community at participating GP clinics and pharmacies.

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.

Who should get the free flu vaccine

The flu vaccine is strongly recommended and free for:

• Everyone aged 60 years and older
• People with underlying medical conditions
• 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

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