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Q. I have recently been awarded my state pension. Will I
be eligible for the free Flu Vaccine this winter?
28.11.11
The HSE has urged people in at-risk groups to get vaccinated
against influenza. Flu can be a very serious illness, especially for
people who are older or who have a long-term illness. Even for those
who received the vaccine last year, it is still important for all
those in the at-risk groups to be vaccinated again this year as
immunity from the vaccine only lasts for up to twelve months and
wanes over time.
The following groups of at-risk people need to be vaccinated against
seasonal influenza:
1. Everyone aged 65 years and over
2. Anyone over six months of age with a long term illness requiring
regular medical follow-up such as chronic lung disease, chronic
heart disease or diabetes
3. Pregnant women
4. Those with lower immunity due to disease or treatment
5. Children or teenagers on long-term aspirin therapy
6. Residents of nursing homes and other long stay facilities
7. Healthcare workers and carers
This year’s seasonal flu vaccine, available from GPs and
pharmacists, protects against three common flu virus strains
including the H1N1 (swine flu) strain.
Anyone with a Medical Card or GP Visit Card will not be charged to
visit the doctor or pharmacist for the flu vaccine. GPs and
pharmacists charge a fee to administer the vaccine to patients
without a Medical Card or GP Visit Card, but the vaccine itself is
provided free of charge for all those in the at-risk groups.
Citizens Information: Buncrana 074 9363496; Carndonagh 074 9373741
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