PREGNANT WOMEN, those with underlying medical conditions and those over 65 have been urged to avail of the HSE’s seasonal flu vaccine programme announced yesterday.
Those targeted include children and adults with long-term illnesses such as asthma or heart problems, and those who attend schools or day centres for people with disabilities. Healthcare staff and carers are also included in the at-risk group.
Healthy pregnant women and women up to six weeks after giving birth who have not previously received the swine flu vaccine are also urged to get the seasonal flu vaccination this year as they are at a higher risk of complications from swine flu.
The HSE said pregnant women who have a long-term medical condition such as diabetes, heart or lung disease also need to get the seasonal flu vaccine, even if they have already had the swine flu jab.
“The flu virus changes each year and this is why a new flu vaccine has to be given every year.
“Based on advice from the World Health Organisation, this year the seasonal flu vaccine contains three common flu virus strains, including the pandemic H1N1 (swine flu) strain which is still circulating this year and is expected to be the most common strain this winter,” the executive said.
“Unlike last year, the swine flu virus strain is included in the seasonal flu vaccine meaning that only one flu vaccination is required this year.” This year’s seasonal vaccine can be given at any stage of pregnancy.