Influenza cases higher than usual among children

Children have been hit particularly hard and early with influenza cases this year. With schools and preschools in Cavan noticing 30-50% of the students missing due to illness, the current levels are higher than usual, a HSE spokesperson confims: “Nationally in week 46, the number of notified influenza cases has increased substantially.”

Data from this week indicated that the number of children with influenza has exceeded the number of influenza cases in adults for the first time this season. Similarly, the rate of RSV diagnoses has increased in recent weeks, but the numbers are less than influenza. The HSE points out that notified COVID-19 cases are relatively low in comparison to influenza.

While respiratory illnesses have seasonal spikes, the “recent sharp increase in influenza is about 3-4 weeks earlier in the season than was seen last year,” the spokesperson said.

Asked whether the case numbers in Cavan were comparable to the ones on a national level, the HSE responded: “The number of flu cases reported in Cavan in week 46 is increasing as are flu cases in neighbouring counties. The reports of school absenteeism would suggest that there is widespread circulation of winter viruses occurring in the community.”

Based on notifications made to HSE Public Health Dublin and North East, it was evident that there had been an increase in influenza cases since week 40.

Nasal flu vaccine safe, effective, painless

Available for free for all children aged 2 to 17 years from GPs and Pharmacies, the HSE urged parents to have their children vaccinated. The nasal spray flu vaccine for children is safe, effective and painless. “Vaccination is the most effective way to protect yourself, your family and your community in the months ahead,” said Dr Suzanne Cotter, Consultant in Public Health Medicine, Public Health HSE Dublin and North East.

She strongly recommends that all those who are in recommended groups get their free flu and COVID-19 vaccines to obtain the vaccines from GPs or pharmacies or HSE vaccine teams. Dr Cotter continued: “As we enter the winter season, we are starting to see respiratory viruses circulate in the community and in healthcare settings. It is very important that all those who are in recommended groups get their free flu and COVID-19 vaccines.”

Babies should also obtain RSV vaccine which is available either in maternity hospitals (newborns) and children born since March 2025 if not already vaccinated. The HSE is also offering the RSV immunisation to babies born between 1st March and 31st August 2025. Appointments will be available for a limited period of time from 17th November to 12th December 2025 in clinics across the country. The portal for booking appointments has reopened, and can be accessed through www.hse.ie/rsv.

Individuals who are symptomatic with respiratory illness should stay at home and follow respiratory etiquette. “Anyone who wants to wear a face mask to protect themselves and others should do so,” the HSE spokesperson further recommended. Individuals may be asked to wear a face mask when visiting some health and care settings.