HSE Launches Winter Vaccination Programme for Flu and COVID-19

The Health Service Executive (HSE) has initiated its Winter Vaccination Programme, which began this week with the distribution of both flu and COVID-19 vaccines throughout the country. The vaccines are available free of charge from participating general practitioners (GPs) and pharmacies, allowing individuals to receive both vaccines simultaneously or at different times.

HSE vaccination teams are set to administer these vaccines to residents of long-term care facilities, including nursing homes, as well as to housebound patients. In addition, vaccination clinics are scheduled for healthcare workers across various workplaces nationwide, ensuring broad access to these essential vaccines.

Children and Special Vaccination Initiatives

The HSE is also offering a nasal spray flu vaccine at no cost for children aged 2 to 17 years, which can be obtained from GPs and pharmacies. Some schools will also provide this vaccine to eligible children. The nasal spray is known for being safe, effective, and painless.

The importance of vaccination is underscored by statistics from last winter, showing that nearly 6,500 individuals were hospitalised due to influenza and over 2,000 were hospitalised with COVID-19. These infections can lead to severe complications, including hospital admissions, intensive care unit (ICU) stays, and fatalities.

Dr. Emer Liddy, Public Health Specialist Registrar at HSE Dublin and South East, emphasized the necessity of vaccination, stating, “As we enter the winter season, I encourage everyone who is eligible for the flu and COVID-19 vaccines to get vaccinated. Getting a vaccine is the most effective way to protect yourself, your family, and your community from serious illness in the months ahead.”

RSV Immunisation Clinics for Infants

Additionally, the HSE is operating RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) immunisation clinics for babies born between 1 March 2025 and 31 August 2025, with services available until 12 October 2025. Parents are encouraged to consult the HSE website or contact HSELive at 1800 700 700 for guidance on recommended vaccines suitable for their children.

The launch of this vaccination programme marks a critical effort by the HSE to mitigate the risks associated with flu and COVID-19 during the winter months, aiming to protect the health of individuals and the wider community.