HSE launches winter vaccination programme and warns that Covid-19 and flu are on the rise [Video]

THE HSE HAS begun its roll-out of free flu and Covid-19 vaccinations as part of its extended winter vaccination programme for people at risk.

Healthcare workers and anyone aged 60 and over, who is pregnant or who has a long-term health condition are eligible to have both vaccines at the same time. 

The doses will be available at participating GPs and pharmacies, while healthcare worker vaccination clinics will also be set up in workplaces across the country.

HSE vaccination teams have promised to provide both vaccines for people living in residential care facilities, including nursing homes and to housebound patients.

Health professionals warned that flu and Covid-19 cases are expected to circulate as the weather cools and urged people to take-up the free service.

Consultant for the HSE National Immunisation Office, Dr Louise Marron, said that both viruses can cause serious illness. 

“Last winter over 4,000 people were hospitalised with …