Overview: A heads-up for Limerick residents as winter nears
As the days grow shorter and temperatures dip, local health professionals in Limerick are urging residents to prepare for what could be a tougher flu season. Trends from the Southern Hemisphere, particularly Australia, are prompting medical experts to warn that the coming months may bring higher rates of flu, along with cold and Covid-19 cases. In this context, a prominent message from a local pharmacist underscores practical steps families can take to stay well.
Distinguishing the flu from a cold
During the colder months, it’s common to confuse a nasty cold with the influenza virus. Denise O’Driscoll, Chief Pharmacist at McCabe’s Pharmacy, explained on Live95’s Limerick Today that flu symptoms tend to involve high fever and significant fatigue. He noted that a cold or simple cough may be milder and more intermittent, while flu often leaves people feeling depleted and unable to carry on with normal activities. This distinction matters because it influences how urgently medical care or vaccination is sought.
“The best way to describe the flu is that you run always at extremely high temperature with the flu and your fatigue is significant with it versus like a cough or a cold which sometimes you know you just kind of can stroke it off,” he said. While COVID-19 remains a factor in winter health, its overlap with flu symptoms can complicate self-assessment, highlighting the value of vaccination and informed care.
Vaccines: eligibility and practical access
Vaccination is a central pillar of reducing severe illness this winter. O’Driscoll emphasized that eligibility for vaccines is broad, with guidance available on the Health Service Executive (HSE) website. The key points include:
- Vaccines are available to adults and most at-risk groups; the program includes people over 60 and those with underlying medical conditions.
- Children aged 2 to 17 can receive the nasal flu vaccine free of charge.
- Pregnant individuals are advised to consider vaccination to protect themselves and the baby.
- Stay-at-home carers and households with vulnerable people are also eligible to help minimize spread.
With a broad eligibility framework, residents should check the HSE site for current details and speak with their local pharmacist about the best vaccination plan.
Practical steps for families and carers in Limerick
Beyond vaccination, there are several concrete steps families can take to reduce the impact of flu and other respiratory illnesses this winter:
- Get vaccinated early and follow up as advised by healthcare professionals.
- Practice good hygiene: frequent handwashing, using tissues, and proper cough etiquette.
- Keep a small stock of basic medicines and consult a pharmacist if you’re unsure about symptoms or medications.
- Stay home if you’re unwell to prevent spreading illness to others, especially vulnerable household members.
- Monitor for warning signs that require medical attention, such as high fever lasting more than a couple of days, severe shortness of breath, or chest pain.
What this means for Limerick’s winter health outlook
Local pharmacists like O’Driscoll stress preparedness as a cornerstone of community health. By understanding how to recognize flu-like symptoms and knowing where to access vaccines quickly, residents can reduce the risk of severe illness and keep essential services flowing during peak seasons. The message is clear: respond early, get vaccinated when eligible, and rely on trusted local health resources to navigate a potentially challenging winter.
Resources for further information
Residents are encouraged to consult the HSE website for up-to-date vaccine eligibility, clinic locations, and scheduling details. Community pharmacists also remain a frontline source of guidance, answering questions about symptom management, vaccine timing, and how to protect those most at risk during flu season.
