HSE Urges Cork Residents to Get Flu Vaccine as Cases and Hospitalisations Rise

The HSE has issued an urgent call for everyone eligible to receive their flu vaccine this winter, as influenza cases continue to climb across Ireland. New data shows case numbers jumped from 144 to 174 in just one week, whilst hospitalisations more than doubled from 22 to 48.

The latest figures from the HSE Health Protection Surveillance Centre reveal that influenza activity is increasing rapidly. During week 44 of 2025, the highest number of cases were recorded among adults aged 65 years and older.

All three circulating flu strains have been detected this season: Influenza A(H3), A(H1)pdm09 and Influenza B viruses.

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."

Free flu vaccines remain available at participating GP clinics, pharmacies and community health centres across Cork. The children's nasal spray vaccine is also available for all children aged 2 to 17 years.

The vaccine is strongly recommended and free for everyone aged 60 and older, people with underlying medical conditions, healthcare workers, all children aged 2 to 17 years, pregnant women at any stage, carers and household contacts of those at higher risk, nursing home residents, and people with regular close contact with poultry, waterfowl or pigs.

The HSE advises people to stay home if unwell, wash hands regularly, cover coughs and sneezes, keep indoor spaces well ventilated, and check in with vulnerable family members and neighbours.

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