'Vaccination against COVID-19 and flu are vital'

The Department of Health is once again highlighting the vital importance of boosting our immunity against COVID-19 and influenza.

Immunity can wane over time, which is why booster jabs are needed for those who are most vulnerable to infection from the SARS-CoV-2 virus.

Vaccination against flu is recommended each year because the circulating strain of the Influenza virus changes from year to year.

Those eligible for the flu vaccine include preschool children aged two to four and all children attending school up to Year 12, while frontline health workers are eligible to get both the Covid and flu jabs free of charge.

People under 50 who are at particular risk from Covid-19 and Flu are also being encouraged to boost their immunity through taking up the offer of vaccination.

Deputy chief medical officer Dr Lourda Geoghegan said: “We need maximum readiness for potential increases in both Influenza and COVID-19 levels in our community over the festive season and into the New Year.

“It is anticipated that this year’s winter flu season will be significantly more challenging than in recent years.