The Minister for Health, Mr Micheál Martin, today launched a national influenza immunisation campaign.
The vaccine, which provides up to 90 per cent protection against the disease, has been distributed to health boards and general practitioners throughout the country.
It is to be made available free of charge to medical card holders who are at risk of contracting influenza. Those at risk but without medical cards will not be charged for the vaccine but may have to pay for its administration.
At the launch Mr Martin advised all those for whom immunisation is recommended to avail of the vaccine at the earliest possible opportunity.
"It takes ten - 14 days to start protecting recipients against the disease," he said.
"While the ideal time for vaccination is September/October, the vaccine can be administered throughout the winter months."