What is influenza (flu)?

Influenza is a highly infectious acute respiratory illness caused by the influenza virus. Influenza affects people of all ages. Outbreaks of influenza occur almost every year, usually in winter. This is why it is also known as seasonal flu.

Who is eligible for free vaccination?

Administration of the Flu Vaccine is completely free to all Medical Card, Doctor Visit Card & HAA card holders who are over 65 or who belong to one of the at-risk groups listed below:

• persons aged 65 and over
• those with a long-term medical condition such as diabetes, heart or lung disease, moderate or severe asthma, COPD, cystic fibrosis, MS
• persons whose immune system is impaired due to disease or treatment
• healthcare workers
• residents of nursing homes and other long stay institutions
• persons with a body mass index (BMI) over 40
• all pregnant women, at any stage of pregnancy
• carers
• persons with regular close contact with poultry, water fowl or pigs.

Patients who do not hold a medical card, doctor visit card or HAA card, but are over 65 or belong to one of the at-risk groups above, will have some of the cost of their flu vaccine subsidised by the HSE.

If you have a question please leave a comment below.

If you would like to receive further information, please contact your local O’Donnell’s Pharmacy.