McCabes launch flu vaccination service
McCabes Pharmacies across Cork have launched a flu and Covid-19 winter vaccination service, encouraging parents to protect their children and their families and communities by getting vaccinated. New research reveals that over half of parents living in Munster (52%) say their children had flu in the past year.
The service is available in eight McCabes Pharmacies across Cork. Protect Your Loved Ones, Get Vaccinated is encouraging parents to protect their children and their families and communities by ensuring they get vaccinated.
New research commissioned by McCabes Pharmacy reveals the burden the virus places on families. 52% of parents in Munster said their children had flu in the last 12 months, with 44% of parents nationwide reporting the same. Of those nationwide, more than one in four (27%) were forced to take unpaid leave from work to care for them.
Last winter highlighted just how serious flu can be. According to the Health Protection Surveillance Centre (HPSC), in the final week of December 2024 overall confirmed flu cases more than doubled (999 to 2,375), while hospitalisations rose from 264 to 531. By Christmas week, over 1,000 people were hospitalised with flu.
A key focus for McCabes Pharmacy this winter is to encourage all cohorts to get vaccinated especially older people and those who may be immuno-compromised. Adults over 60 remain the age group with the highest uptake of the flu and Covid-19 vaccine, and McCabes Pharmacy is encouraging families to take steps to protect their loved ones through vaccination.
Denis O’Driscoll, Chief Superintendent Pharmacist at McCabes Pharmacy, said: “At McCabes Pharmacy, our purpose is simple: better health for every body. Aside from the disruption flu brings to families and workplaces, it can be especially dangerous for children with underlying health conditions. For children aged 2-17, the nasal flu vaccine is a quick, painless and free way to protect your family this flu season.”
Professor of Immunology Christine Loscher at DCU, added: “Almost 74% of older adults received the flu vaccine last year, but only 20% of children did - despite children having as many reported flu cases as over-65s. Over 2,000 children were hospitalised as a result. Low uptake in this age group is resulting in preventable hospitalisations. Vaccination remains the most effective way to protect against flu.”
McCabes Pharmacies in Grand Parade, The Lough Shopping Centre, Hollyhill Shopping Centre, Ballincollig Shopping Centre, Midleton, Kinsale Shopping Centre, Youghal, and Charleville will provide the flu vaccine free for all children aged 2–17 and adults aged 60+.
Book your flu and Covid-19 vaccinations online at mccabespharmacy.com or in-store at your local McCabes Pharmacy. Appointments can be made online at mccabespharmacy.com, through the McCabes Pharmacy app, or in-store at your local pharmacy.