Flu and COVID-19 vaccination clinics in South East open to eligible members of the public this week

Flu and COVID-19 vaccination clinics taking place across the South East for healthcare workers are also available on a walk-in/no appointment necessary basis to members of the general public in ‘at risk’ groups.

Adults in the following groups, without any charge, can attend as regards getting a Flu Vaccine:

• Anyone aged 60 or over.
• Those who are pregnant.
• Someone with a health condition that puts them at higher risk of Flu
• Those living with someone who has a health condition that puts them at higher risk of Flu
• A carer for someone who has a health condition that puts them at higher risk of Flu.
• Those in regular contact with pigs, poultry or waterfowl.

Adults in the following groups, without any charge, can attend as regards getting a COVID-19 Vaccine:

• People age 60 and older.
• Anyone aged six months to 59 years with a weak immune system.
• Those aged six months to 59 years with a condition that puts them at high risk of serious illness from COVID-19.
• Those who are pregnant.

The dates, times and locations of the ‘walk-in’ Flu and COVID-19 booster Vaccination Clinics this week are:

Monday 27th of January:

• From 1pm to 3pm in the HSE’s Wexford Mobile Vaccination Unit, HSE offices, Lacken, Dublin Rd., Kilkenny (R95 NV08)
• From 10am to 3pm in the HSE’s Wexford Vaccination Centre, Grounds of St John’s Hospital, Enniscorthy, Co. Wexford (Y21 H4CF).

Tuesday 28^th of January:

• From 10am to 2pm in the HSE’s Newpark Primary Care Centre, Kilkenny (R95 HAC4).
• From 10am to 3pm in the HSE’s Tipperary Primary Care Centre, Rosanna Rd., Tipperary Town (E34 K682).

Wednesday 29^th of January:

• From 10am to 3pm in the HSE’s Our Lady’s Hospital building, Cashel, Co. Tipperary (E25 P407).
• From 10am to 2pm in the HSE’s Waterford Vaccination Centre, Old St. Martin’s School, Kilcohan, Waterford (X91 EY73).

Thursday 30^th of January:

• From 10am to 2pm in the HSE’s Carlow Vaccination Centre, Grounds of St. Dympna’s Hospital, Carlow (R93 X7TV).
• From 10am to 3pm in the HSE’s Cahir Primary Care Centre, Barnora, Cahir, Co. Tipperary (E21 KF83).

Friday 31^st of January:

• From 10am to 3pm in the HSE’s Tipperary South Vaccination Centre, Grounds of St. Luke’s Hospital, Clonmel, Co. Tipperary (E91 PR83).

You can get your COVID-19 booster and Flu vaccine at the same time. The Flu vaccine is also available from GPs and pharmacies. For those eligible, the COVID-19 booster vaccination is available from GPs and pharmacies. The HSE completed a programme of Flu and COVID-19 booster vaccinations for residents and staff in both public and privately run long term care facilities. The HSE has ongoing clinics in place for healthcare workers to receive both Flu and COVID-19 booster vaccinations. All healthcare workers and people in at-risk groups are urged to get the Flu Vaccine. Likewise, all those eligible for a COVID-19 booster are being encouraged to receive it.

As high numbers of people presenting with symptoms of respiratory illness is placing pressure on hospitals (in order to protect patients and staff, visiting restrictions may be in place across some hospitals), the HSE is asking everyone to help stop the spread of Flu by staying at home if you're sick. If you need care, visit your pharmacy, GP or family doctor, GP Out of Hours or an injury unit for non-serious issues like fractures or burns. Also, remember to wash your hands and cover your coughs and sneezes. If you're having trouble breathing or feel chest pain, go to the emergency department or call 112 or 999.

Dr. Vida Hamilton (Regional Clinical Director, HSE Dublin and South East/Consultant Anaesthetist and Intensivist at University Hospital Waterford) says:

“The Flu Vaccine is the best way to protect yourself and your loved ones from flu this winter. Being vaccinated reduces risk and helps to avoid serious illness, hospitalisation and even death. A high rate of Flu vaccination among healthcare workers and other at-risk groups in in our communities will help us to limit the damage flu infection can bring.”

Dr Carmel Mullaney, Regional Director of Public Health) says:

“Unfortunately, every winter we see rises in certain infections, including seasonal Flu and winter vomiting virus (norovirus). While for many, such illnesses are unpleasant but relatively mild, for some people, especially the very young or those who are older, and with underlying medical conditions, these infections can be very serious. To protect ourselves, those vulnerable adults and children in our lives, and to support our health and care services, it is really important that we do everything we can to reduce the risk of spread of infection. Due to sustained presentations with Flu symptoms and an increase in Flu positive cases, some healthcare facilities and hospitals have introduced visitor restrictions and mask wearing. We are asking people to comply with the local advice and measures being put in place across the service.”

“I would like to remind people of the more fundamental measures we can all take to avoid either catching or spreading infection. Frequent hand washing with soap and water helps prevents the spread of the Flu and other viruses. When you're sick, it’s best to avoid contact with people who are vulnerable. Stay home from your place of work or school if you feel unwell. If you do become sick, self-management for the more mild symptoms with paracetamol, fluids and rest helps a great majority of people.  And of course, vaccination is still available, and still worthwhile. Prevention is much easier than treatment.”