Protect your family: Staying healthy together this winter

• HSE South West encourages all eligible family members to get vaccinated and protect themselves against both flu and COVID-19 this winter season
• Vaccines are free from participating GP practices and pharmacies
• It is safe to have both flu and COVID-19 vaccines at the same time

The winter vaccination campaign for HSE South West gets underway today, with the roll-out of the free flu and COVID-19 vaccines to recommended groups. Everyone aged 60 years and older, anyone with a long-term health condition, and pregnant women are all encouraged to make an appointment now.

Both the flu and COVID-19 vaccines are available from participating GPs and pharmacies and can be given at the same time.

The children’s flu vaccine (a nasal spray) is also available from participating GPs and pharmacists and is available in schools for all children aged 2 to 17 years.

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

Dr Andy Phillips, Regional Executive Officer for HSE South West, said:

“During the winter months, every family member can be affected by the various viruses which make us ill at this time of the year. Vaccination is key to keeping our loved ones well. It is easy to get your vaccinations by popping into your local participating GP, or pharmacy. It is particularly important for everyone aged 60 years and older, anyone with a long-term health condition, and pregnant women to visit their participating local GP and pharmacy for both flu and COVID-19 vaccines at a time that best suits them.”

Dr Anne Sheahan, Area Director for Public Health Medicine, HSE South West, said:

“Each winter season, our immunity to viruses drop, so it’s important to top up your flu vaccine now and get your COVID-19 booster when it is due. People can safely receive both vaccines at the same time for free through participating GP practices and pharmacies. The children's flu vaccine or nasal spray is also available to those eligible and aged between 2 to 17 years.”

Dr. Sheahan, added: “People can get very ill from both flu and COVID-19 and end up in hospital. No-one wants to end up in hospital, so protect yourself and others around you by getting your vaccinations.”

Kathleen O’Mahony, Acting Head of Service for Health, Wellbeing and Strategy, Cork Kerry Community Healthcare said:

“It’s important for all families to be vaccinated over the coming months. Vaccinations are crucial in safeguarding against preventable diseases, and this winter is no exception. If you have recently has COVID-19, we recommend waiting at least three months between having the virus and getting your COVID-19 vaccine. If you are unsure if you are due a vaccine, please check hse.ie, call HSELive on 1800 700 700 or talk to a participating GP or pharmacist.

You can also view our public message video:

Protect your family: Staying healthy together this winter (youtube.com).