Flu cases have surged in the past week, with the HSE warning of a ‘tripledemic’ in Ireland this winter, as cases of flu, Covid and RSV are on the rise
HSE issue warning as flu cases soar with symptoms to watch shared
Health experts have issued warnings about a potential ‘tripledemic’ hitting Ireland this winter, with Covid, flu and RSV cases all anticipated to climb in the run-up to Christmas.
Confirmed flu infections have soared over the past week, leaping from 197 to 457, whilst Covid cases have risen modestly from 189 to 192 and RSV infections have climbed from 51 to 90.
With all three viruses circulating, health officials are encouraging the public to get vaccinated.
The HSE stated: “Every winter brings an increase in seasonal illnesses such as flu.
“While these illnesses are unpleasant but mild for many, they can be very serious for older adults, young children and people with underlying health conditions.”
“Flu has started to circulate in the community and will continue to increase over the coming weeks. Getting vaccinated remains the best protection against serious illness and hospitalisation.”
The HSE is providing complimentary flu jabs at participating GP surgeries, chemists and community health centres, reports the Irish Mirror.
Healthcare staff are also advised to receive vaccination, with clinics being held in workplaces and throughout the community.
Children aged two to 17 are eligible for the nasal spray flu vaccine, which the HSE describes as “safe, painless and effective” through participating GPs and chemists.
The HSE is also recommending that anyone feeling poorly should remain at home to avoid transmitting the virus to others. In the midst of flu and Covid-19 circulating concurrently, distinguishing between the two can be a challenge due to their similar symptoms.
The HSE suggests that it could be Covid if you have:
high temperaturea new, continuous cougha loss or change to your sense of smell or taste
However, there is one significant symptom that indicates flu rather than Covid.
Flu generally strikes suddenly and severely, with multiple symptoms manifesting simultaneously – including fever, body aches, fatigue, headache and sore throat – whereas Covid typically develops more gradually and often includes a loss of taste or smell.