Your WellnessQ&A

Why are so many people getting the flu?

The flu virus spreads through coughs and sneezes and can live on hands and surfaces for 24 hours. If you reckon you have it, it’s best to stay at home

Flu symptoms come on very quickly, according to the HSE. They can include a sudden high temperature of 38 degrees or above, aches and pains, feeling tired, a dry cough, sore throat, a headache, as well as difficulty sleeping, loss of appetite and stomach pain. Photograph: iStock
Flu symptoms come on very quickly, according to the HSE. They can include a sudden high temperature of 38 degrees or above, aches and pains, feeling tired, a dry cough, sore throat, a headache, as well as difficulty sleeping, loss of appetite and stomach pain. Photograph: iStock
Shauna Bowers's picture
Shauna Bowers
Fri Jan 03 2025 - 12:38

What is the flu and why is everyone going on about it?

Flu or influenza is caused by a virus that infects the lungs and upper airways. Most people get better on their own, but a small number of others can become seriously ill or even die from the infection.

As is the case every winter, cases of the respiratory illness influenza are circulating at high levels in the community – meaning the number of people with the virus is rising rapidly.

Over Christmas week, there were 2,319 confirmed cases of flu notified to the Health Protection Surveillance Centre.

Are there many people in hospital with the virus?

Yes, and the number is rising. The Health Service Executive (HSE) had conducted modelling which predicted 900 people would be hospitalised with flu last week. However, by New Year’s Eve, there were already more than 1,000 patients with flu in hospital. By Thursday, the figure had grown to 1,031.

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What are the symptoms?

According to the HSE, flu symptoms come on very quickly. They can include a sudden high temperature of 38 degrees or above, aches and pains, feeling tired, a dry cough, sore throat, headache, as well as difficulty sleeping, loss of appetite and stomach pain.

For children, the symptoms are similar, but they can also get a pain in their ear and seem less active.

The symptoms of flu are quite similar to that of a cold, but the former tends to be much more severe.

How does it spread?

The flu virus spreads through coughs and sneezes. It can live on hands and surfaces for 24 hours. If you reckon you have flu-like symptoms, the best way to avoid spreading it is to stay at home.

Are there specific people most at risk?

You are more likely to be at risk from complications if you are 65 or older, pregnant, have a long-term medical condition, or are aged two to 17.

[ Flu hospitalisations expected to double in coming 10 days ]

Is the health system able to cope?

Technically yes, but with great difficulty. As a result of the surge in flu, visitor restrictions are being put in place across hospitals. The demand on emergency departments will mean more people waiting on trolleys before receiving a bed.

The surge will also result in the likely cancellation or postponement of scheduled care due to the necessary beds being occupied by those presenting with serious complications of flu.

Bernard Gloster, chief executive of the HSE, said the system is “managing very well”, and though under pressure, the current situation is an improvement on previous years.

How can I protect myself and others?

Vaccination is the best form of protection, and vaccines remain available for those in target groups. People with flu-like symptoms should avoid socialising and remain at home.