30 Flu‑related deaths recorded in Mid West last year

Health officials reported that 30 people died from influenza in the Mid West during the previous year.

The HSE said 1,780 confirmed flu cases were recorded across Limerick, Clare and North Tipperary, with 839 patients hospitalised and 11 admitted to intensive care units.

The figures were released as the HSE’s Winter Vaccination Programme was launched, offering free flu and COVID‑19 vaccines to eligible groups.

People aged 60 and over, those with underlying medical conditions or a weakened immune system are advised to receive both vaccines. All healthcare workers, pregnant women and children aged 2‑17 are recommended to take the flu jab.

Vaccines are available at GPs and pharmacies, and HSE vaccination teams will visit nursing homes and housebound individuals. A free nasal flu vaccine is also offered to children aged 2‑17.

The HSE urges people to be vaccinated now, as immunity takes up to two weeks to develop before the flu season intensifies.

Source: Limerick Post. Photo: freestocks.org / Pexels.