Cases of severe flu in Northern Ireland doubled in 2017

According to the Public Health Agency (PHA), the number of people treated for the influenza virus in intensive care units or high-dependence doubled last year.

A total of 119 cases were treated in these departments and 22 people with influenza died.

Among ICU patients, the average age was 64, with 11 patients under 15 years of age.

The PHA has asked everyone who is eligible for the flu shot to get it.

The organization said that vaccinating children against the virus can help reduce it.

"Super-spreaders"

Dr. Lucy Jessop, health protection consultant at PHA, said, "The flu virus spreads in the air when people cough and sneeze without covering their noses and mouths. the flu virus very quickly, making them "super-spreaders".

"Because the virus spreads easily, preschool and primary school children are offered the flu shot, which gives them the best protection and also helps protect the most vulnerable members of their families."

She added: "Traditionally, influenza vaccination rates are high in Northern Ireland, but last year we saw a slight decline.

"We must not become complacent – we must maintain high participation rates every year to maximize the protection of our community.

"It is important that all people eligible for vaccination – whether they are two or 102 years old – accept the offer."