The HSE is to hold free nasal flu vaccine walk-in clinics for children, after a rapid rise in cases.
In total, cases have increased from 170 to 283 for all ages – but there’s been a rise mainly in those four and under.
Dr. Aparna Keegan is a Consultant in Public Health Medicine with the HSE………..
The walk-in clinics will be available from December 27th to 29th for two to 17-year-olds.
Clinics will operate in Letterkenny on December 28th and in Buncrana, Donegal Town and Dungloe on December 29th.
Full details –
As a result of the increased circulation of flu in our communities, the HSE will be holding free nasal flu vaccine walk-in clinics for children aged 2-17 years in the coming days. Over the last number of weeks flu cases have risen rapidly among all age groups.
Getting the vaccine is the best way to protect young children from the effects of flu. We know children are more likely to spread the virus among themselves and their family, so getting the vaccine is doubly important. We want children and families to enjoy the Christmas period free from flu and illness.”
The nasal vaccine is still available from participating GP practices and pharmacies. The HSE continues to offer children in Senior Infants and all children in Primary Age Special Schools their free nasal spray flu vaccine in schools.
The number of confirmed influenza cases notified to HPSC has increased in the past week, with 283 confirmed influenza cases notified in week 49 (week ending December 10th) and 170 cases reported in week 48 (week ending December 3rd). During week 49, 2023, influenza increased in almost all age groups but mainly in those aged 0-4 years.
Symptoms of flu in children can include:
- High temperature
- Muscle pains
- Headache
- Extreme tiredness
The flu vaccine gives children the best protection against flu.
You can get your children’s flu vaccinations in Cavan Monaghan at the below times:
The Vestry, St Conal’s Church, Letterkenny, Co. Donegal, F92 TD92
28th December 10am to 12pm
Donegal Town Primary Care Centre, F94 PD8W
29th December 10.30am to 12.30pm
Buncrana Primary Care Centre, Maginn Avenue, Buncrana, F93 E12W
29th December 10.30am to 12.30pm
Community Mental Health Hub Dungloe, F94Y326
29th December 10.30am to 12.30pm
Dr Aparna Keegan, Consultant in Public Health Medicine at the HSE National Immunisation Office, says: “We are urging all parents of young children to get their free nasal flu vaccine. Recent data has shown flu is circulating more widely in communities across the country. This is having a big impact on young children in particular.
Visit Flu Finder for participating pharmacies
