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‘Know Your Rights’ has been compiled by Kerry Citizens Information Service which provides a free and confidential service to the public…
Question
I have been told I need to get a flu vaccine. Can I get it for free?
Answer
Influenza, usually known as the flu, is highly infectious and anyone can get it. However some groups are at greater risk of complications if they get the flu.
This includes people over the age of 65, pregnant women and people who have a chronic medical condition.
The flu vaccine can help protect you from getting the flu. The flu virus changes every year and this is why there is a new vaccine each year. Vaccination is strongly recommended if you:
• Are aged 65 and over
• Have a long-term medical condition such as diabetes, heart, kidney, liver, lung or neurological disease
• Have an impaired immune system due to disease or treatment
• Have a body mass index (BMI) over 40
• Are pregnant
• Live in a nursing home or other long-stay institution
• Are a carer or a healthcare worker
• Have regular contact with poultry, water fowl or pigs
• You can get the vaccine from your GP (family doctor) or pharmacist. Children can get the vaccine from a GP.
The vaccine itself is free of charge if you are in one of the recommended groups.
However, doctors and pharmacists may charge a consultation fee when they give you the vaccine.
If you have a medical card or GP visit card you can get the vaccine without being charged a consultation fee.
• Further information is available from the Citizens Information Centre below.
Contact Tralee on Tel: 0761 07 7860 Killarney 0761 07 7820, Listowel 0761 07 7840 Kenmare 0761 07 7810, Killorglin 0761 07830 & Caherciveen 0761 07 7780.
Information is also available online at citizensinformation.ie and from the Citizens Information Phone Service, 0761 07 4000
