Wexford GP Urges Public to Get Flu Vaccine as Winter Illnesses Increase

A Wexford GP is urging people to get vaccinated against influenza as surgeries across the county begin to see an increase in seasonal respiratory illnesses.

Dr Bill Lynch says flu should never be dismissed as simply a bad cold, warning that it can cause serious illness, particularly among older people and those with underlying health conditions.

Speaking on South East Radio's Morning Mix, Dr Lynch said influenza can cause high temperatures, headaches, nausea, vomiting and severe muscle aches, with vulnerable patients sometimes confined to bed for up to two weeks.

He stressed that vaccination remains one of the most effective ways of reducing the risk of serious illness.

The HSE's 2026–2027 winter vaccination programme began on October 8th, with free flu vaccines available to eligible groups through participating GPs and pharmacies.

Those encouraged to get vaccinated include people aged 60 and over, children aged two to 17, pregnant women, healthcare workers and people with certain long-term medical conditions.

Dr Lynch said the children's flu vaccine, administered as a nasal spray, is particularly important in households where several generations live together, as infections can spread quickly between family members.

He also encouraged eligible patients to consider other recommended vaccinations, including COVID-19 and pneumococcal vaccines.