Health Minister Mike Nesbitt announced the expansion of the flu vaccination program to include individuals aged 50 to 64 in Northern Ireland. This decision comes amidst concerns about winter pressures on healthcare services, including lengthy wait times at emergency departments. Officials reported the worst flu season since before the Covid-19 pandemic, though they believe hospital admissions have reached a peak. The Public Health Agency (PHA) continues to urge eligible individuals to get vaccinated against flu, Covid-19, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) to alleviate strain on the health system.
Health Minister Mike Nesbitt has announced a series of measures amid ongoing concerns about winter pressures on health services in Northern Ireland , including long waits at hospital emergency departments.
He said: "Flu vaccines will now be available to the over 50s, ie, the age group 50 to 64. That is a new development. Having prioritised those most at risk and healthcare workers, I am now in a position to widen the reach of the flu vaccination programme." Dr Joanne McClean, director of public health at the PHA, told MLAs on Tuesday that it had been the worst year for flu since the Covid-19 pandemic and “significantly” worse than last year.
Anyone aged 5 years and above with a sore throat can access the service in a participating pharmacy. The pharmacist will offer a confidential consultation in a private area of the pharmacy where they will discuss how you are feeling and the symptoms you are experiencing.
Health Flu Vaccination Northern Ireland Winter Pressures
United Kingdom Latest News, United Kingdom Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
World Cup 2026 qualifying draw: England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland and Republic of Ireland discover opponentsThomas Tuchel's first games in charge of England have been revealed, while Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland have tricky 2026 World Cup qualifying tests.
Read more »
Northern Ireland Coach Ben Heron Hosts Ireland's Biggest Men's Development EventBen Heron, a Northern Ireland based fitness coach, is hosting 'New Year, New Man', a major event aimed at helping men achieve their physical and personal best. The event, taking place on January 5th at Windsor Park, encourages men to connect, learn and grow together.
Read more »
Ice Warning Issued for Northern Ireland, Power Outages in Republic of IrelandA fresh ice warning has been issued for Northern Ireland, with icy conditions expected to create travel disruptions. Meanwhile, thousands of homes remain without power in the Republic of Ireland due to severe weather conditions.
Read more »
Northern Ireland Urges Public Support Amid Winter Health PressuresThe Health Minister in Northern Ireland has issued a plea for public support as winter pressures on health and care services escalate.
Read more »
Northern Ireland Health Service Faces 'Severe Pressure' from Flu and RSV SurgeNorthern Ireland's health service is under intense strain due to a combination of early flu season and high RSV cases, leading to long waits at emergency departments.
Read more »
Flu Vaccine Expansion in Northern Ireland Amid Winter Health PressuresNorthern Ireland's Health Minister, Mike Nesbitt, expands the flu vaccination program to include individuals aged 50 to 64 in response to rising flu cases and winter strain on healthcare services.
Read more »