Ireland - The Chief Nursing Officer (CNO), Rachel Kenna, has today urged healthcare workers to protect their own and their patients’ health by getting a ‘flu vaccine.
The CNO made the appeal after she received her free ‘flu vaccine along with nursing colleagues at a vaccination clinic for healthcare workers.
Healthcare workers are 10 times more likely to get the ‘flu compared to the general
population and are at high risk of transmitting a ‘flu infection to their patients. By getting vaccinated, healthcare workers not only protect themselves, but also their patients, colleagues and families.This year’s Health Service Executive (HSE) Winter vaccination programme provides ‘flu and COVID-19 vaccines free of charge to recommended groups, including everyone aged 60 and over, and people with certain long-term health conditions.
Children aged two to 17 years can receive a free nasal spray ‘flu vaccine.
Vaccines are available from participating general practitioners (GPs) and pharmacies and are also available to healthcare workers at vaccination clinics in many workplaces.
The CNO said:
“All of us can play our part in reducing the spread of respiratory viruses this year. I am encouraging all who work in our healthcare services to lead the way, by getting vaccinated and protecting their health and the health of their patients and families.
“The protective effect of vaccines wanes over time, so even if you’ve been vaccinated previously, it’s important to top up your protection every year and ensure you are protected against the strains of the viruses that are circulating this year.
“Winter viruses can cause serious illness, particularly in people with underlying health conditions, so we all need to try and minimise the risk of infection.
“Healthcare workers can get the flu and COVID-19 vaccines for free, and they can be administered at the same time. Both are safe and effective, and are available in staff vaccination clinics in healthcare settings all over the country, as well as through GPs and pharmacies.
“In addition to getting vaccinated, I would encourage everyone to practice good respiratory etiquette. Wash your hands, cough and sneeze into your elbow, and stay at home if you have symptoms of respiratory illness.”
Notes
More information about the 'flu vaccine.
The following people are eligible for a free ‘flu vaccination during the 2025/2026 'flu season:
- those aged 60 and older
- children aged 2 to 17
- healthcare workers
- pregnant individuals
- residents in a nursing home or other long-term care facility
- those in regular contact with pigs, poultry or waterfowl
- someone with a health condition that puts you at higher risk of flu (age 6 months and older)
- if you are living with someone who has a health condition that puts them at higher risk of flu
- a carer for someone who has a health condition that puts them at higher risk of flu
- those living with certain health conditions
Recommended to receive free COVID-19 vaccine
Groups recommended to get a COVID-19 vaccine in autumn/winter 2025/2026
- All aged 60 years and older
- All aged 18 years and older living in a long-term care facility for older adults
- All aged 6 months and older with immunocompromise associated with a suboptimal response to vaccination
- All aged 6 months and older with a medical condition associated with a higher risk of hospitalisation, severe disease or death due to COVID-19
Anyone aged 18 years and older (including any healthcare worker) who wishes to receive a COVID-19 vaccine this autumn/winter can do so, following discussion with a healthcare professional.
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