Stephen Donnelly (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)
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It is important to note that excess mortality has been observed during previous periods when influenza viruses circulated at high levels in Ireland, for example in winter 2017/2018 which has previously been characterised as a severe flu season, and during certain periods of the COVID-19 pandemic.

As Ireland experienced a winter of high levels of influenza cases and hospitalisations, it would not be unexpected to see excess mortality. Influenza activity was at very high levels in Ireland during December 2022 and early/mid-January 2023, with a high number of influenza hospitalisations reported. Other important factors that may impact excess mortality include the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, circulation of other respiratory viruses, impacts of cold weather, and an ageing population.

For the winter 2023/2024 free covid and flu vaccines will be available to those aged 65 and over as well as other eligible at-risk groups. Thevaccination programmes are scheduled to officially commence in early October. Vaccines can be accessed through GPs or pharmacies. In addition, HSE mobile vaccination teams will administer vaccines to vulnerable, non-mobile and hard-to-reach groups, including those residing in Long Term Care Facilities.

It is anticipated that the alignment of Ireland’s Covid-19 and Influenza Vaccination Programmes during the Autumn and Winter period of 2023/2024 will maximise uptake of both vaccines to eligible cohorts.

The anticipated increase in respiratory viruses circulating during the 2023/2024 winter season highlights the importance of implementing personal non-pharmaceutical interventions such as hand hygiene, cough etiquette, and staying at home when ill with respiratory symptoms. Wearing a face covering/mask is no longer mandatory, however, anyone who wishes to continue to wear a face covering/mask should not be discouraged from doing so.