Medical Council urges healthcare workers and the wider public to avail of flu vaccine

Thursday 11th December 2025: The President and CEO of the Medical Council have today urged healthcare workers and members of the public to avail of the Flu Vaccine.

Dr Suzanne Crowe, President of the Medical Council, said, "As a consultant working with very sick children, we are seeing increasing numbers of children presenting with respiratory and flu like illnesses. This is being replicated in hospitals across the country with the younger and older members of our communities and those with pre-existing conditions most at risk of complications and hospital admissions during this flu season. 

“I would strongly recommend that all healthcare workers avail of the vaccine, not only to protect yourself and your family but also your patients. This will reduce the numbers of healthcare workers who will require sick leave and help ensure our hospitals are adequately staffed for what is fast becoming a very busy period for us,” concluded Dr Crowe.

Dr Maria O'Kane, CEO of the Medical Council, said, "Now is the time to act to protect yourself and your loved ones as we quickly approach Christmas. Those who are in public facing roles interacting with many people, including healthcare workers, should consider getting the flu vaccine.” 

“As the festive season kicks off and our socialising may increase, please consider getting the vaccine before meeting with those more vulnerable, especially as families get together over Christmas dinner.” 

“For most the flu can be managed at home with over-the-counter pain killers, fluids and rest but for those at risk it can lead to hospitalisation and serious complications, so please don't risk your loved ones, or ruin your festive season, and avail of the flu vaccine," concluded Dr O’Kane.

Flu vaccines are available across the country from GPs and pharmacists. For more information, please visit www2.hse.ie/conditions/flu/get-vaccine/.