HSE says Ireland facing flu surge

The HSE has said that Ireland is experiencing a surge in flu cases, with 742 people hospitalized as of Friday.

The HSE says the surge in cases is the result of a combination of factors, including the lifting of Covid-19 restrictions, the increase in social mixing, and the cold weather.

The HSE is urging people to get vaccinated against the flu, and to take precautions to avoid getting sick, such as washing hands, covering coughs and sneezes, and staying home if they're sick.

The flu is a respiratory illness caused by the influenza virus. Symptoms of the flu can include fever, chills, sore throat, runny nose, cough, and body aches.

The flu can be a serious illness, and can lead to hospitalization or even death. People who are at high risk for complications from the flu include the elderly, young children, pregnant women, and people with chronic health conditions.

The flu vaccine is the best way to protect yourself from the flu. The flu vaccine is safe and effective, and it can help to prevent you from getting sick, or from getting seriously ill if you do get sick.

If you have any questions about the flu, or about the flu vaccine, please consult your doctor.