HSE Statement on Influenza

Some parents have expressed concern in relation to recent Swine Flu (H1N1) outbreaks across Dublin. Please find below guidelines from the HSE.

Please note there have been no confirmed cases of Swine Flu in Powerstown ETNS.

The H1N1 flu virus, previously known as swine flu, is now a seasonal flu virus that circulates worldwide.  The H1N1 strain has been included in the seasonal flu vaccine in Ireland since the 2010/2011 influenza season.

If you or our your child get the symptoms of flu you should stay at home look after yourself and get in touch with a GP if you think your condition is getting worse

The HSE provides the flu and pneumococcal vaccine free of charge for all those in the at-risk groups.

The following groups of at-risk people need to be vaccinated against seasonal influenza:

• Everyone aged 65 years and over
• Anyone over six months of age with a long term illness requiring regular medical follow-up such as chronic lung disease, chronic heart disease, diabetes or those with lower immunity due to disease or treatment
• Pregnant women
• Children or teenagers on long-term aspirin therapy
• Residents of nursing homes and other long stay facilities

Those who have not got a vaccine at this stage are encouraged to make an appointment with their GP or Pharmacist as soon as possible as the vaccine covers the virus that is around at the moment.

The ILI flu rates continue to rise and are expected to do so for 1 to 2 more weeks.

If you get the symptoms of flu you should stay at home look after yourself and get in touch with a GP if you think your condition is getting worse. Further information for managing flu symptoms can be found athttp://undertheweather.ie/ailment/flu

Your Flu Timeline

• 1-2 days

  Symptoms like sore throat, fever and muscle ache develop quickly and you will feel very unwell.

  Usually you do not need to see the doctor as most flu can be treated at home.  Drink plenty of fluids to replace those lost from sweating. Get lots of rest and eat healthily.  People who are at risk of the complications of flu may need to see a doctor. These work best if started within 48 hours of flu symptoms.

• 3- 5 days

  Your symptoms are now at their peak and you will feel at your worst.

  Continue to drink plenty of fluids to replace those lost from sweating and runny noses. Make sure you are still getting lots of rest and eating healthily.

• 5- 8 days

  At this stage, you should start to feel much better although a cough and general tiredness may last for two to three weeks.

  Again, continue to drink plenty of fluids, eat healthily and return to normal activities when you feel better.