From HSE: We would like to thank schools for supporting the dissemination of these important messages and
thank students, parents and guardians and the whole school community for their efforts in following
public health advice.
All children aged 2-17 can get the free flu vaccine
The nasal flu vaccine is still available in Ireland for children aged 2-17. It is given as a spray up the
nose, there is no need for an injection. It is a safe, easy and pain free way to help protect children
against flu this winter.
The flu vaccine will also help reduce the spread of flu to others such as siblings, parents, teachers at
high risk of flu complications (e.g. pregnant or long-term health conditions) and grandparents.
Additional Flu Vaccination Clinics
The HSE has set up additional walk-in flu vaccination clinics for all children aged 2-17 years.
This is in response to rising numbers of both flu cases in children as well as the significant number of
children who have been hospitalised with flu this winter and very low vaccination rates.
A number of community vaccination centres across the country are now offering walk-in flu
vaccination clinics for all children aged 2-17. No appointment is necessary and the vaccine is free of
charge. The full schedule of clinics is available on hse.ie/flu
The vaccine is also available from participating GPs and pharmacists. Parents can find details on
pharmacies offering vaccinations in their area using the pharmacy finder tool on hse.ie/flu
The nasal spray flu vaccine is only available until Monday, 23 January. After this date, only children
with medical conditions which put them at risk of serious illness from flu will be able to get a flu
vaccine given as an injection.
