Important Flu Season Update for Parents

Dear Parents and Guardians,

We want to keep our Lucan Community College students healthy this winter. Flu rates are rising and are expected to be especially high over the Christmas and New Year period. This increases the risk of illness and complications, particularly for vulnerable children and adults. The HSE have asked that we remind families of the following important information this Flu season.

Key Points for Parents:

• Flu Vaccine for Children:
  The HSE strongly recommends the free nasal spray flu vaccine for all children aged 2 to 17 years. Vaccination helps protect your child from serious illness and reduces the spread of flu in schools and the wider community. Vaccines are available through HSE school vaccination teams, GPs, and community pharmacies.

• Hygiene and Staying Home:
  Please encourage your child to:

  • Wash hands regularly
  • Cover coughs and sneezes
  • Stay at home if they have flu-like symptoms

  For advice on whether your child is well enough to attend school or childcare, visit the HSE’s guidance page:
  HSE: Is my child well enough for school?

Why this matters:
Over the past decade, thousands of children have been hospitalised due to flu complications, with some requiring intensive care. Vaccination and good hygiene are the best ways to protect your family and our school community.

For more information, visit www.hse.ie or contact your GP or local pharmacy.

Thank you for helping us keep everyone safe and healthy this winter.