High uptake of the flu vaccine among people with asthma is expected this year, the Asthma Society of Ireland has said.

It has released the results of a new survey, which shows that 77% of respondents availed of the flu vaccine during the 2020 winter season, with 12% of these receiving it for the first time. This high uptake looks set to be replicated this year, with 83% of respondents stating that they intend to get it.

Flu can cause asthma symptoms to flare up and those with moderate or severe asthma face an increased risk of experiencing flu-related complications. The flu vaccine is available free of charge to those with moderate or severe asthma.

Over 1,600 people took part in the survey and of these, 74% said they would get the flu vaccine to protect themselves, while 35% were concerned about protecting family members.

Some 50% of respondents said they intend to speak with their GP or respiratory specialist for further information about the vaccine and staying well this winter, a figure described as “heartening” by Asthma Society CEO, Sarah O’Connor.

“It’s great to see such a positive response to vaccine uptake. It is so important to take extra precautions this time of year and we know that colds and flu, along with respiratory infections, can be triggers for many people with asthma,” she noted.

Speaking about her own experiences with severe asthma, asthma advocate, Rachel Murray, is encouraging others to get the flu vaccine this year.

“Getting sick with flu can be extremely debilitating and can cause your asthma symptoms to flare. People with moderate to severe asthma are at a higher risk of flu-related complications, but can protect themselves by booking in for their free flu vaccination, which helps your body produce proteins to fight infection and keep you well this winter,” she said.

The survey of 1,602 people with asthma and their carers was carried out this month.