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The HSE has officially launched its Winter vaccination programme, offering free flu and COVID-19 vaccines to recommended groups from today. This initiative aims to protect older people, at-risk groups, and healthcare workers during the upcoming winter months.

Both vaccines are now available for people aged 60 and over, healthcare workers, pregnant individuals, and those with long-term health conditions. Eligible individuals can receive the vaccines from participating GPs and pharmacies, and the vaccines can be administered simultaneously. Vaccination clinics for healthcare workers will also be organised in various workplaces across the country.

Dr Louise Marron, Consultant in Public Health Medicine, HSE National Immunisation Office, emphasised:

“This winter, both flu and COVID-19 viruses are expected to circulate. Flu and COVID-19 are caused by different viruses, but both can cause serious illness. Last winter over 4,000 people were hospitalised with flu, and over 7,000 people were hospitalised with COVID-19.

Our immunity drops over time, so it is important to get vaccinated this winter to get protected against circulating strains and to top up your protection. It is very important that all those who are eligible get both their free Flu and COVID-19 booster vaccines now to protect them this winter.”

HSE vaccination teams will also provide both vaccines to individuals in residential care facilities, including nursing homes, and to housebound patients.

Dr Colm Henry, Chief Clinical Officer, HSE, urged:

“I am urging everyone eligible to get the flu and COVID-19 vaccines to protect yourselves and your family over the coming months. This year, we have extended the flu vaccine to more people, making it available for free to everyone aged 60 years and older. Both flu and COVID-19 vaccines are also recommended for anyone who has a long-term health condition, pregnant women, and health and care workers.”

The children’s flu vaccine, administered as a nasal spray, will be available from 7 October for children aged 2 to 17 years. It can be obtained from participating GPs and pharmacists.

If you are eligible, visit your local GP or pharmacist to get vaccinated or find more information at HSE.ie, or call HSELive on 1800 700 700.

Additional Vaccines Available:

• The pneumococcal vaccine (PPV23), which protects against pneumonia, septicaemia, and meningitis, is available free of charge from participating GPs for individuals aged 65 and older.
• Pregnant women can avail the pertussis vaccine (Tdap) free of charge from participating GPs between 16 and 36 weeks of pregnancy, ensuring protection for the baby during the first few months of life.