Irish flu levels remain high
Influenza activity continues to decrease but still remains widespread and at high levels. The sentinel GP influenza-like illness (ILI) consultation rate decreased to 65.7 per 100,000 population during week 6 2018 (week ending February 11th) from 72.3 per 100,000 in the previous week. GP ILI consultation rates remained highest in those aged 0-4 and 5-14 years. Influenza hospitalisations continue to be reported at high levels with the highest rates seen in those aged 65 years and older. One hundred and twenty nine confirmed flu cases have been admitted to critical care units so far this season. Eleven acute respiratory infection/influenza outbreaks were reported during week 6. To date this season, 92 flu related deaths have been reported to HPSC. Influenza is expected to circulate in the community for the next three to four weeks. Influenza B and influenza A (H3N2) are currently the main flu viruses circulating with more influenza B reported.
The weekly influenza surveillance reports and further information on influenza and flu vaccine are available on the HPSC website.
Influenza vaccine
The influenza vaccine is available free of charge from GPs for all people in at risk groups, and from pharmacists for everyone in at risk groups aged 18 years and over. An administration charge may apply to people who don’t hold medical cards or GP visit cards.
At risk groups for the vaccine are:
- All those aged 65 years and older
- People including children with chronic illness requiring regular medical follow-up such as chronic lung disease, chronic heart disease, chronic neurological disorders, neurodevelopmental disorders and diabetes
- Those with lower immunity due to disease or treatment and all cancer patients
- All pregnant women. The vaccine can be given at any stage of pregnancy.
- Those with morbid obesity i.e. Body Mass Index ≥ 40
- Residents of nursing homes, old people's homes and other long stay facilities
- Health care workers and carers of those in at-risk groups.
Vaccination remains the most effective means of preventing infection by seasonal influenza viruses and can reduce severe disease that can lead to hospitalisation and death. The vaccine takes two weeks to take effect once received.
What to do if you have flu-like symptoms
Anyone who gets flu should stay at home, rest, drink plenty of fluids and use over-the-counter remedies like paracetamol to ease symptoms. Advice, tips, information and videos on getting over flu and other common illnesses are available at a new HSE website, www.undertheweather.ie
When to seek help
Adults
If you are in an at risk group with flu symptoms OR if you are not in an at risk group but your flu symptoms are severe or getting worse you should contact your GP. GPs may wish to prescribe antivirals for those presenting with influenza in the at risk groups. If you need to visit your GP or the Emergency Department, please phone first to explain that you might have flu.
Children
If your child has flu and their symptoms are severe or last for more than one week contact your GP. Please phone first to explain that they might have flu.
Preventing spread to others
Covering your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough and sneeze (catch it), disposing of the tissue as soon as possible (bin it) and cleaning your hands as soon as you can (kill it) are important measures in helping prevent the spread of germs and reducing the risk of transmission. Posters on preventing spread are available on the HPSC website.