Vaccination appeal as 'super-flu' sweeps through the borough

A LOCAL councillor and healthcare worker has appealed to the public to take ‘protective measures’ as a new strain of flu puts pressure on hospitals.

Airport Sinn Fein rep Annemarie Logue said: “The rise of the H3N3 subclade K virus , known as the ‘superflu’ is a growing cause for concern following a significant increase in cases since early autumn.

“Early rises were first observed among teenagers and young adults, followed by younger children.

“While flu can affect all age groups, older adults particularly those living with other health conditions remain at the highest risk of serious illness and complications.

“Hospitals and emergency departments are already experiencing increased admissions , placing considerable pressure on health services.

“This strain poses the risk of outbreaks within healthcare settings and, in some cases could cause the temporary closure of wards.

“Such developments again pose a serious threat to vulnerable and already compromised individuals who rely on timely and safe access to care

“The sharp rise in confirmed cases over the past month underlines the importance of taking preventative action .

“As a health care professional I have been following the trend of the emerging virus and I had the vaccination in early November.

“I strongly encourage everyone who is eligible to receive the flu vaccination as soon as possible .

“This is especially important for frontline healthcare workers, who play a vital role in protecting patients and maintaining essential services.

“Simple protective measures can also make a real difference. Regular handwashing, proper sanitisation, and wearing a face mask in public in crowded or enclosed spaces help reduce the spread of infection and protect our communities.

“The health trusts have also highlighted symptom checker on social media so that people can check in with symptoms to help identify if it’s the common cold , COVID or the flu.

“By acting responsibly and looking out for one another, we can help limit the impact of this flu season and protect those most at risk.”

Last month, Antrim Guardian editor Jeremy Hopkin told of how he spent over two weeks in intensive care at Antrim Area Hospital after developing pneumonia following a case of the flu.