Getting vaccinated every year is the most effective way to protect yourself and your loved ones from flu and COVID-19. Both vaccines are available at McCartan’s Pharmacy, and in many cases are free of charge. The flu season runs from October through to April — we recommend getting vaccinated as early in the season as possible. You can receive both vaccines at the same appointment if you are due both.

Children’s Flu Vaccine — Nasal Spray (ages 2 to 17)

All children aged 2 to 17 years are eligible for a free flu vaccine under the HSE programme. For most children, this is given as a nasal spray (Fluenz) — a quick, pain-free alternative to an injection. An injectable vaccine is available for those who cannot receive the nasal spray for medical reasons. Please bring your child’s PPS number to their appointment.

Adults’ Flu Vaccine — Injectable

The injectable flu vaccine is available free of charge for:

• All adults aged 60 and over
• All pregnant women (at any stage of pregnancy)
• All healthcare workers
• Carers providing ongoing care to a person with a chronic condition or disability
• Adults aged 18–59 with an underlying health condition (including chronic respiratory, heart, liver, kidney or neurological disease; diabetes; cancer; immunosuppression; BMI ≥40; Down Syndrome)
• Household contacts of people with underlying chronic conditions or Down Syndrome
• People in regular contact with pigs, poultry or waterfowl
• Residents and staff of long-stay facilities

If you are aged 18–59 and do not fall into any of the above categories, a private flu vaccine is also available — please ask our team for details. Please bring your PPS number to your appointment.

COVID-19 Vaccine — Autumn/Winter Booster

COVID-19 booster vaccines are recommended in autumn and winter for those most at risk. The current vaccine is Comirnaty (Pfizer), updated to protect against currently circulating strains. A booster is recommended free of charge for:

• All adults aged 60 and over
• Residents of long-term care facilities
• All pregnant women (ideally between 20 and 34 weeks, but can be given at any stage)
• Adults aged 18+ with immunocompromise or a condition associated with higher risk of severe COVID-19
• Healthcare workers in the groups listed above

There should be at least 3 months between your last COVID-19 vaccine or infection and your booster. If you have a weakened immune system, two doses per year may be recommended — speak to our pharmacist or your GP.