Flu cases are on the rise in Ireland

They confirmed that over 400 people have been hospitalised with flu this winter season, doubling in the last week compared to the week before, according to new data from the HSE Health Protection Surveillance Centre. 

So far this winter season, influenza hospitalisations are mainly impacting older adults and young children.

They have advised anyone who is eligible for the winter vaccines to get it as soon as possible.

The HSE is now seeing flu circulating in the community and it will continue to increase over the coming weeks.

"There is still time to get your flu vaccine; it is highly effective, protecting you and your family. It takes about two weeks for immunity to develop so now is the time to act," a HSE spokesperson stressed.

What is the difference between a cold and the flu?

It is important to know the difference between a cold and a flu especially during the winter season.

Cold symptoms are often milder than the flu and often include a runny nose, sore throat, and some body aches.

Flu symptoms are way more serious and can often result in complications in vulnerable people and infants.

The main symptoms of the flu are a fever, feeling feverish/chills, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle or body aches, headaches, and fatigue.

To see what vaccines are recommended for you: visit hse.ie, call HSELive on 1800 700 700 or talk to a participating GP or pharmacist.

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