Influenza activity decreasing in Ireland
All indicators of influenza activity in Ireland decreased during week 9 (week ending March 4th 2018). Community flu activity decreased further with the sentinel GP influenza-like illness (ILI) consultation rate declining to 22.2 per 100,000 population during week 9 compared to the updated rate of 34.6 per 100,000 population reported during the previous week (figure 1). The GP ILI consultation rates decreased in all age groups. ILI rates have been above the Irish baseline threshold (17.5 per 100,000) for 12 consecutive weeks. Influenza will continue to circulate in the community in the coming weeks.
Influenza hospitalisations continue to be reported at moderate levels, with the highest rates observed in those aged 65 years and older. To date this season, 3,469 hospitalised confirmed influenza cases have been reported to HPSC. One hundred and fifty-eight confirmed flu cases have been admitted to critical care units so far this season. Seven influenza/acute respiratory infection outbreaks were reported during week 9. To date this season, 136 flu related deaths have been reported to HPSC. Influenza B and A(H3N2) are continuing to co-circulate, with low levels of influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 also circulating.
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. Influenza advice for schools is available on the HPSC website.
Influenza vaccine
People in at risk groups are urged to get vaccinated against influenza if they have not already done so as it is still not too late.
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.