Flu-Related Emergency Department Visits Drop Despite Rising Case Numbers

Emergency departments across Ireland have seen a decline in influenza presentations, even as overall recorded flu cases continue to increase, according to updated figures released by the HSE today.

The latest data shows that while recorded influenza cases rose to 3,548 during the past week, the number of patients presenting to emergency departments with flu symptoms has decreased to 1,806, down from 1,893 the previous week. Hospitalised influenza cases have also fallen, dropping from 815 to 692.

Dr Colm Henry, HSE Chief Clinical Officer, said:

"We will continue to monitor patterns closely as we head into the festive period. There are a number of factors that may influence trends in the coming weeks, such as the natural increase in socialising and intergenerational mixing that occurs during the festive period. Vaccination uptake remains important, particularly among at-risk groups. There is still time to get your flu vaccine and I would encourage all those eligible to avail of it. The best time to get vaccinated is now."

Free flu vaccines remain available at participating GP clinics and pharmacies throughout Cork and Ireland. Healthcare workers can access free vaccines at staff vaccination clinics and in the community through GPs and pharmacies.

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