The Pat Kenny Show How to protect yourself from new flu strain
Nov 24, 2025
Dr Éamonn O’Moore, Director of the National Health Protection Unit at the HSE, shares crucial insights on the new subclade K flu strain. He discusses the early surge in cases and the importance of vaccination, particularly for at-risk groups. Dr O’Moore emphasizes that younger individuals may drive the spread but usually recover. He also highlights the effectiveness of recent flu jabs and the need for continued infection control measures. With rising flu cases, his expert advice on prevention is timely and essential for public health.
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Flu Season Has Shifted Earlier
- A new flu subclade has shifted the season earlier by about three to four weeks across Europe.
- Dr Éamonn O’Moore expects the peak around late December to early January, increasing transmission risk during holiday mixing.
Get Vaccinated Now And Use Precautions
- Get the flu vaccine now because it takes about two weeks to develop immunity.
- Combine vaccination with respiratory etiquette and staying away from vulnerable people when symptomatic.
Young People Often Drive Early Spread
- Flu rises often begin among younger people who transmit to others.
- Most young people recover well unless they have immune problems, but they can still spread infection to vulnerable groups.