As positive flu cases have nearly doubled to 954 in the last week, the Health Minister has urged the public to get protected and get your Influenza vaccination.

During a visit to the Ulster Hospital’s vaccination clinic, the Minister encouraged all those eligible to get their vaccination against flu. He also encouraged those eligible to take up the offer of Covid-19 and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) vaccination.

Flu-related hospital admissions have also nearly doubled since last week, with 264 people now being treated in hospitals in Northern Ireland, showing how serious it can be. The Health Minister Mike Nesbitt advises that it’s not too late to get protected.

Minister Nesbitt said: “Vaccination offers the best defence against serious illness that we can catch more frequently in winter. Our Health and Social Care (HSC) services face 365-day pressure, but we know they are under more severe pressure during winter. This is partially due to an increase in seasonal illnesses, such as flu, Covid and RSV.

“Help us to help you, protect yourself and our vital services by getting vaccinated if you are eligible. It is not too late – get protected now.”

The Minister also encouraged HSC staff to help protect themselves: “I visited the Ulster Hospital’s vaccination clinic and witnessed firsthand the fantastic work they are doing.  I would like to thank the staff across Northern Ireland who are involved in the roll out of these vital vaccination programmes. I would really encourage all HSC staff to take up the opportunity to protect yourself this winter by ensuring you get the flu vaccine.”