Did you know? Over half (56%) of Irish parents report that their children missed school days last year due to flu or flu-like conditions. This not only disrupts their education but also places a heavy burden on families, with one in five parents relying on grandparents to mind children when they’re unwell.
Children are most vulnerable in relation to hospitalisation from flu, so to combat the flu’s ripple effects on families and communities, the Irish Patients Association (IPA) is urging parents and guardians to join the ‘Flunion’ this winter by ensuring their children receive the free nasal flu vaccine.
The Impact of the Flu on Irish Families
A recent survey commissioned by the IPA reveals:
- Learning Loss: Nearly half of parents (49%) stated that their children missed vital learning opportunities due to school absences from flu.
- Missed Activities: 24% of parents noted their children missed out on school events and activities.
- Strain on Childcare: 1 in 5 parents had to turn to grandparents for childcare during illness.
- Healthcare Pressures: 50% of families visited their GP up to three times due to flu-like symptoms, while 10% required four or more visits.
- With GP appointment delays affecting nearly half (49%) of families, prevention through vaccination becomes even more critical.
Hesitation Around Flu Vaccination
Despite the benefits of the flu vaccine, hesitation among parents remains a challenge.
- 53% of parents hesitated to vaccinate their children last year—up from 44% in 2023.
- Why the hesitation? One of the top reasons parents cite is time constraints
Why Join the ‘Flunion’?
Dr. Lisa Cunningham, Consultant in Emergency Medicine, emphasizes:
“Flu is serious and can lead to complications. The nasal flu vaccine is an easy, effective way to protect children and the wider community. With pharmacists, schools, and GPs offering vaccinations, access has never been easier.”
Stephen McMahon of the IPA adds:
“Flu doesn’t just affect children—it impacts families and communities. The vaccine is free, quick, and easy to get from GPs or pharmacies at a time that suits busy parents.”
Flu Vaccine Facts for Children (Ages 2–17)
- Convenient Access: Available free of charge from local GPs, pharmacies, and school vaccination programs.
- Simple and Painless: Administered as a nasal spray—no needles!
- Community Protection: Vaccinating your child helps shield vulnerable populations from flu.
Let’s Protect Our Communities Together
By joining the IPA’s ‘Flunion’ campaign, supported by AstraZeneca, you can help reduce flu-related school absences, GP visits, and community spread. It’s time to make flu prevention a family priority this winter. For more information on the free flu vaccine and how to join the ‘Flunion,’ visit www.irishpatients.ie
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