HSE Issues Urgent Warning as Flu Cases Double in One Week

The Health Service Executive (HSE) has issued an urgent appeal for the public to get vaccinated immediately following a sharp surge in influenza cases. New figures released today reveal that hospitalisations and Emergency Department presentations due to flu have doubled in the space of a single week.

Data from the Health Protection Surveillance Centre (HPSC) indicates an early start to the flu season, with cases reported in hospitals jumping from 213 to 418 in the week ending 29 November. This rapid increase is largely driven by the newly emerged AH3N2 variant, which poses a significant risk to vulnerable groups and is projected to place high pressure on health services across the country, including here in Munster.

Urgent call for vulnerable groups

Dr Colm Henry, HSE Chief Clinical Officer, expressed concern regarding the sudden spike in activity. He urged those aged over 60, pregnant women, people with underlying medical conditions, and the immunocompromised to take immediate action.

“We are seeing a rapid increase of cases of patients with influenza, including those needing hospitalisation,” said Dr Henry. “It is imperative that those groups take action now to protect themselves now in order to get the protection they need.”

With the vaccine requiring two weeks to become fully effective, health officials stress that the best time to get vaccinated is now, before infection rates peak during the busy holiday period.

Healthcare workers and children

The HSE has specifically highlighted the need for healthcare workers to get vaccinated to protect themselves, their families, and their patients. Additionally, the free nasal spray vaccine is strongly recommended for all children aged 2 to 17 years to help curb the spread within the community.

Breaking the chain of transmission

Dr Eamonn O’Moore, Director of HSE National Health Protection, advised the public to follow respiratory etiquette to help break the chain of transmission. This includes covering coughs and sneezes, regular hand washing, and staying at home when unwell.

“People with symptoms of respiratory or gastrointestinal infection are advised to stay away from healthcare settings until symptoms have resolved,” Dr O’Moore added.

Where to get the vaccine

Free flu vaccines are currently available at participating GP clinics and pharmacies across Cork and the wider country for eligible groups, including:

• Everyone aged 60 years and older

• People with underlying medical conditions

• Healthcare workers

• All children aged 2-17 years

• Pregnant women

• Carers and household contacts of at-risk people

• Residents of nursing homes

For more information or to locate a participating pharmacy, visit www.hse.ie/flu.

Protect yourself and your community this winter; book your appointment today.