People at risk of getting the flu are being reminded to get vaccinated against the illness.

At-risk groups include older people, pregnant women, healthcare workers and people with chronic illnesses.

The vaccine can be administered by GPs and pharmacists. According to the Irish Pharmacy Union (IPU), over 62,000 people availed of the vaccine in community pharmacies during the 2015/16 flu season, an increase of 22% on the previous year.

Flu is a highly infectious virus and the flu season traditionally lasts from October to April. The virus can be spread by coughing or sneezing and it is estimated to cause 200-500 deaths every year in Ireland.

"It is important to remember that flu is an extremely contagious respiratory illness and can lead to serious illness, even death, particularly for elderly patients and those suffering from chronic illnesses or a weakened immune system. Flu vaccination is the best way to reduce your chances of getting seasonal flu and spreading it to others.

"It is important that patients, especially at-risk patients, get the flu vaccine every year. The more people who get vaccinated, the less flu can spread through the community," commented pharmacist and IPU member, Caitriona O'Riordan.

The IPU noted that it can be difficult to tell the difference between the flu and the common cold. It pointed out that colds are a lot less severe than flu. Other differences include:
-Fevers are rare with colds. With flu, there is usually a high fever lasting three to four days
-Headaches are rare with colds. They are a prominent feature of flu
-General aches and pain tend to be slight with colds. With flu, they are usually severe
-Fatigue and weakness can be quite mild with colds. With flu, this can last up to three weeks
-Extreme exhaustion is not associated with colds, but it is a prominent symptom in flu
-A stuffy nose, sneezing and a sore throat are all common with colds, however they are not always a feature of the flu.

The IPU also noted that while colds usually start gradually, flu symptoms come on suddenly.

The flu vaccine is free of charge to people in at-risk groups who have a medical card.