What is flu?
Fever, headache, sore throat and all-over aches and pains are all symptoms that can be associated with flu. Caused by an existing flu virus, it is a common infection in Ireland that usually occurs during the winter months. We provide a Winter Flu Vaccination Service to help you avoid flu this winter.
Why get a flu vaccination?
The current winter flu vaccination is designed to protect against the viruses responsible for most cases of flu. If you are suitable for vaccination our pharmacist will make an appointment with you to have the vaccine administered. We may be able to vaccinate you straight away. The procedure will take approximately 10 minutes and you must allow enough time to remain in the pharmacy for 15 minutes after the vaccination so that we can observe you for any side effects.
Who should get the flu vaccine?
Vaccination is strongly recommended for:
- Persons aged 65 and over
- Those with a long-term medical condition such as diabetes, heart, kidney, liver, lung or neurological diseases
- People whose immune system is impaired due to disease or treatment
- People with a Body Mass Index (BMI) over 40
- Pregnant women (can be given at any stage of pregnancy)
- Residents of nursing homes and other long stay institutions
- Healthcare workers and carers
- People with regular close contact with poultry, water fowl or pigs
Will I be eligible for a free winter flu vaccination?
If you are aged 18 years or over, are one of the people for whom vaccination is strongly recommended and have a Medical Card, GP Visit Card or HAA Card, you are entitled to receive the winter flu vaccine and consultation free of charge from your pharmacist.
If you are aged 18 years or over, are one of the people for whom vaccination is strongly recommended or simply wish to protect yourself this winter but don't have a Medical Card, GP Visit Card or HAA Card you can get the winter flu vaccination from your pharmacist but a fee will apply.