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The HSE has launched its free nasal spray flu vaccination programme for children, to complement the adult COVID-19 and flu vaccines campaign.
The nasal spray vaccine is available for free for all children aged 2-12 years and children aged 13-17 at high risk of flu from participating GP practices and pharmacies. In addition, this year the HSE is extending the programme to offer children in Senior Infants and all children in Primary Age Special Schools their free nasal spray flu vaccine, in schools.
Dr Nicola Murphy, Specialist Registrar in Public Health Medicine said:
“Flu can cause serious illness and children are twice as likely to contract flu and remain infectious for longer when compared with adults. They are also at higher risk of severe illness, complications and hospitalisation.
Young children, in particular, are more likely than adults to be very sick and admitted to hospital because of flu. A study carried out in the UK has shown that there was a substantial reduction in the number of children who became ill and were hospitalised with flu, in regions where the flu vaccine was given to primary school children. There was also an overall reduction of over half in the number of adults going to see their GP with the flu, as a result of primary school children being vaccinated.
Only 16% of children in Ireland who were eligible last year got the nasal flu vaccine. It is safe, effective and free of charge for those who are eligible. Vaccinating children protects them – and it also protects their siblings, parents, grandparents and those who are vulnerable.”
Children are given the nasal vaccine by spraying the vaccine once into each nostril. It is a quick and painless spray. Children can breathe normally and many of them report that it tickles when being given. Parents can talk to a participating GP or pharmacy about getting your child vaccinated for free.
Symptoms of flu in children can include:
- High temperature
- Muscle pains
- Headache
- Extreme tiredness
HSE Autumn Winter vaccination programme for adults
The HSE’s Autumn Winter vaccination programme for adults is also underway, with the roll-out of free flu and COVID-19 vaccines to recommended groups. The flu vaccine is recommended for people aged 65 and over. The COVID-19 Autumn Winter booster vaccine is recommended for people aged 50 and over. Both vaccines are recommended for health and care workers, anyone who is pregnant, or has a long-term health condition.
Dr Cliodhna Ní Bhuachalla, Specialist Registrar in Public Health Medicine said:
“This winter we are likely to see a number of viruses circulating in Ireland, including flu virus and the virus that causes COVID-19. Our best protection against flu and COVID-19 is vaccination, which will give your immune system the top-up it needs to help protect you from serious illness.
The National Immunisation Advisory Committee (NIAC) recommend flu vaccine for those aged 65 and over, and the COVID-19 vaccine is recommended for people aged 50 and over. Both vaccines are recommended for healthcare workers, anyone who is pregnant, or has a long-term health condition. These vaccines are available free from your GP or participating pharmacies and can be given at the same visit.
As flu and COVID-19 are caused by different viruses it’s important to get both vaccines for optimal protection. Circulating flu strains can change every year and protection from the vaccine can decrease over time, which is why it’s important to get vaccinated yearly.
COVID-19 can still cause severe illness. COVID-19 booster vaccines are safe and effective. A recent Irish study undertaken by the Health Protection Surveillance centre (HPSC) estimated that between December 2021 and March 2023, the national COVID-19 vaccination programme prevented more than 80% of expected hospitalisations, ICU admissions and deaths.
It is important to use a trusted source of information such as hse.ie, or to speak with a health professional if you have any questions.”
Visit hse.ie and search for flu finder to find a participating pharmacy offering the children’s nasal spray flu vaccine. For more information about any of the vaccines, visit hse.ie.