Flu cases are expected to hit their highest levels this week, but hospitals will continue to face significant strain, according to the HSE’s Chief Clinical Officer.
The rise in flu cases has led to a surge in hospital activity, with healthcare facilities nationwide struggling to manage the increased demand.
Dr. Colm Henry reported that 758 people are currently hospitalised with flu, while community cases remain alarmingly high at over 3,000.
A disappointing uptake of the flu vaccine this season has compounded the problem, Dr. Henry noted. Vaccination rates have been particularly low among children and healthcare workers, two critical groups for reducing the spread of infection.
Highlighting the severity of the flu’s impact, Dr. Henry said that 43 per cent of those hospitalized are over 65, but nearly 18 per cent are under five years old. These figures underscore the wide-ranging effects of the flu on vulnerable populations.
Speaking on RTÉ’s Today with Claire Byrne, Dr. Henry emphasised that while vaccines are not 100 per cent effective, they are an essential component of infection prevention.
He also stressed the importance of complementary measures such as hand washing and isolating when sick to help curb the spread of the virus.