The flu is still spreading widely across all regions in Ireland and the HSE has issued a renewed appeal urging anyone who feels unwell to stay at home
Stock image of a dinner (Image: Betsie van der Meer)
Flu remains “still spreading widely” throughout all parts of Ireland, the HSE has confirmed, issuing a fresh appeal for anyone feeling ill to remain at home in order to curb transmission.
Latest data from the HSE’s Health Protection Surveillance Centre (HPSC) reveals that although flu infections reached their peak prior to Christmas, the virus is still circulating at elevated levels within the community. During the past week, nearly two thirds (63%) of those admitted to hospital with flu were aged 65 or above.
The greatest number of flu infections recorded this winter season has been amongst people aged 65 and older, alongside children under the age of 15.
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The predominant flu strain in circulation this season is Influenza A(H3N2), which the HSE warns can pose serious risks to older people, young children and individuals with pre-existing health conditions. Some health professionals have labelled this variant ‘super flu’.
In a statement released today, the HSE issued strong guidance for anyone displaying symptoms to self-isolate at home, reports the Irish Mirror.
A spokesperson commented: “It is important we all take action to ensure we protect ourselves, our loved ones and each other from infection at this time of year when levels of flu and other respiratory viruses are increasing.
“Flu is still spreading widely in all regions in the community. To prevent passing the flu on to others, stay at home if you are unwell. Your friends, families and colleagues would thank you for doing the right thing.
“If you have symptoms, please do not visit vulnerable relatives/friends/neighbours and particularly do not visit nursing homes or hospitals for social visits when ill.
“If you are unwell and need medications, try to send someone else to collect your medicines from the pharmacy. By following these steps, we can protect ourselves, our loved ones and each other.”
The HSE has also set out a list of important flu symptoms to be aware of. One symptom that might seem unusual to some is a loss of appetite, which may only become apparent when sitting down for dinner.
Full list of flu symptoms:
a sudden high temperature of 38 degrees or aboveaches and painsfeeling tired or exhausteda dry cougha sore throata headachedifficulty sleepingloss of appetitediarrhoea or tummy painfeeling sick and being sick
In children, the symptoms are similar, though they may also mention ear pain or seem less energetic than normal.
The HSE also commented on face mask usage in today’s update, clarifying that whilst there’s no blanket requirement for the public to wear them, they could prove beneficial in certain circumstances.
It stated: “There is no general call for public to use masks, but some people may wish to do so in crowded indoor spaces eg on public transport and in busy public spaces (shops, churches/places of worship) especially if they are poorly ventilated. They may be the case especially for people who are vulnerable.
“If you are ill and need to attend your pharmacist, GP or hospital you should wear a mask if you can. Hospitals and care settings may require you to use masks when visiting even if you are well – this will be guided by local risk assessment in the setting. When using a mask – use it properly and dispose of in waste bin.”
The HSE is also reminding the public that there’s still time to receive the flu vaccine at participating GPs and pharmacies. Healthcare workers are once more being “strongly encouraged” to take advantage of their complimentary vaccination.
The health service added: “Flu vaccination significantly reduces hospitalisations by preventing severe illness and lowering the risk of serious complications. To date this season, 76% of ICU admissions due to flu had not received the current seasonal influenza vaccine.”
For individuals suffering from flu, the HSE confirmed that treatment options are available, noting: “If you or your family feel unwell, there are care options. For more information on getting the right care from the right place visit www.hse.ie.”
Flu is extremely contagious and can spread to others with ease, making it essential to exercise caution if you or a household member is feeling poorly. The HSE states that the period during which you’re most likely to transmit the virus is within the first five days following the onset of symptoms.
The influenza virus primarily spreads through minuscule droplets expelled when an infected individual coughs, sneezes or even talks. These droplets can land on people in close proximity, making close contact especially hazardous.
The virus can also linger on your hands, door handles, phones, and other surfaces for up to 24 hours, indicating that it’s possible to contract the virus merely by touching something that an infected person has touched.
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