Flu Vaccination


Seasonal Flu Vaccination at McGreals Pharmacy

Protect yourself and your loved ones from seasonal influenza with the flu vaccination available at McGreals Pharmacy. Flu is a highly contagious respiratory illness caused by the influenza virus, circulating during flu season from October to April. Receiving the flu vaccine helps your body fight the virus, reducing the risk of serious complications such as pneumonia, bronchitis, and worsening of chronic conditions like asthma and diabetes.

Why Get the Flu Vaccine?

The flu vaccine is essential for protecting against the changing strains of the flu virus, which vary year by year. By getting vaccinated, you give your immune system the boost it needs to fight the infection, reducing the severity and duration of symptoms if you contract the flu.

Who Should Get the Flu Vaccine?

The flu vaccine is recommended for everyone but is especially important for individuals at higher risk, including:

  • If you are 60 and older
  • Children aged 2 to 17
  • Someone with a health condition that puts you at higher risk of flu (age 6 months and older)
  • If you are a healthcare worker
  • Pregnant
  • Living in a nursing home or other long-term care facility
  • In regular contact with pigs, poultry or waterfowl
  • Living with someone who has a health condition that puts them at higher risk of flu
  • A carer for someone who has a health condition that puts them at higher risk of flu

What is the Flu Vaccine?

The flu vaccine contains inactivated flu viruses that help your immune system produce antibodies, preparing your body to fight the real virus. Since flu strains change annually, a new vaccine is developed each year to match the circulating strains.

How Much Does the Flu Vaccine Cost?

The flu vaccine is free for:

  • Those in at-risk groups (e.g., people over 60 or with chronic health conditions)
  • Children aged 2-17 For individuals aged 18-59 who are not in at-risk groups, the cost of the flu vaccine is €35.

Who Should Not Get the Flu Vaccine?

You should speak to your pharmacist or doctor if any of the following apply:

  • You’ve had a severe allergic reaction to a flu vaccine or any of its components.
  • You’re taking certain immune checkpoint inhibitors, such as ipilimumab or nivolumab.
  • You have primary autoimmune neutropenia (low white blood cell count).
  • You have had anaphylaxis to eggs or other vaccine ingredients (in which case, your pharmacist may refer you to your GP).

What About People with Egg Allergies?

Most individuals with egg allergies can safely receive the flu vaccine. However, if you have a history of severe egg allergies or anaphylaxis, please inform your pharmacist, and you may be referred to your GP for vaccination.

Book Your Flu Vaccine Today

Don’t wait—protect yourself and your family this flu season. Book your flu vaccine appointment now at McGreals Pharmacy. You can also combine your flu vaccination with your COVID-19 booster in a single visit.

What stores can I book my flu vaccine in?

flu vaccine can be booked in all our McGreals Pharmacies.