The Public Health Agency (PHA) is strongly encouraging all individuals who qualify for the free seasonal flu vaccination to receive it without delay, stating it remains the most effective protection against the virus.

To date this season, Northern Ireland has administered close to 500,000 vaccines. However, the latest respiratory surveillance report shows a rise in flu activity across all monitored groups and settings. The number of confirmed cases has increased from 988 to 1,227, while hospital admissions have climbed from 264 to 346. These figures underscore the vital importance of eligible people getting the vaccine, especially given the increased social mixing expected during the festive celebrations.

Dr Joanne McClean, the PHA's Director of Public Health, commented: "Vaccination remains the best way to protect yourself and others and we're pleased that nearly half a million people have already come forward to take up the offer of the seasonal influenza vaccine. "However, with Christmas fast approaching and the additional mixing that comes over the festive season, including visiting older and vulnerable relatives, we are encouraging eligible people to make arrangements to get vaccinated without delay."

Dr McClean assured the public that the vaccines are safe and effective. "The flu vaccines used in the programme are proven to be safe and effective. Early estimates, which include evidence from Northern Ireland, demonstrate that this year's vaccine reduces the risk of being hospitalised with severe flu, with similar protection to previous years." She also noted a concerning trend: "More children have been admitted to hospital with influenza than usual so far this year. The vaccine is very effective at protecting children from flu, so parents of children who haven't had their vaccine yet take steps to enable them to get it, as flu infection is now circulating widely in Northern Ireland."

Emphasising the risk, Dr McClean added: "We must not underestimate the seriousness of seasonal flu. It can result in hospitalisation, even for some otherwise healthy people. We have enough stock of vaccine for eligible people to avail of the offer. Vaccines are the best protection we have against these viruses so it's important that all those who are eligible get vaccinated as soon as possible." Vaccination Arrangements

• Eligible school children (Primary 1 to Year 12): The majority should receive the nasal vaccine in school; parents/guardians must sign and return consent forms. If the vaccination is missed in school, parents can arrange for it via their GP.

• Pre-school children: Parents should contact their GP practice to book an appointment for the nasal vaccine.

• Eligible adults: Vaccination is accessible through community pharmacy or Trust clinics. Check local pharmacy arrangements for bookings or walk-ins. Details for Trust walk-in clinics are available at www.nidirect.gov.uk/wintervaccines.

Preventing the Spread

Beyond vaccination, everyone is urged to follow common-sense measures to minimise the spread of flu and other illnesses:

• Respiratory Hygiene: Practice 'Catch it. Bin it. Kill it'—carry tissues to catch coughs or sneezes, then dispose of the tissue immediately.

• Hand Hygiene: Wash hands regularly throughout the day, and always before eating/drinking and after using the toilet.

• Rest Up: Stay home if you have symptoms. Stay home with a high temperature until you feel better, or for at least 48 hours after the last episode of diarrhoea and/or vomiting.

• Treating Symptoms: Speak to your pharmacist for over-the-counter remedies, and remember that antibiotics do not work on viruses.

Due to the heightened incidence of respiratory illnesses, Trusts and healthcare settings may introduce local measures, such as requesting the use of face coverings, which the public is asked to accommodate to help protect staff and those attending facilities.

Dr McClean concluded: "If you are eligible for the flu vaccine, COVID-19 vaccine or RSV vaccine, take up the offer to help protect yourself and those around you this winter."

Further details on the winter vaccination programme can be found at www.nidirect.gov.uk/wintervaccines

View information on the RSV vaccine for pregnant women at www.publichealth.hscni.net/RSV-pregnancy

View information on the RSV vaccine for adults at www.publichealth.hscni.net/publications/your-guide-rsv-vaccine-older-adults